Solve Issue: C Drive Getting Full for No Reason
Summary: Do you have a problem with your computer’s C: drive running out of space but are unable to identify the exact reason for the problem? This blog discusses possible causes of the C drive getting full for no reason error as well as fixes for the issue.
On a Windows computer, users sometimes experience a problem where they discover that their local drive C is completely full for no reason. Lack of space may lead to issues such as sluggish system performance and even computer crashes, as the C drive is generally designated to hold system files and other important applications necessary for computer function. Other applications may also experience performance issues.
If your C drive getting full for no reason, read this page to learn the possible causes of the problem and how to fix it.
Why My C Drive is full without any Reason?
The ‘hard disk C is full’ error could be caused by a variety of factors. However, the following are the main reasons why C drive has been overfilled:
- Full recycle bin
- Installation of numerous apps and applications
- Downloaded and kept in C drive are large files.
- Accumulation of system files and temporary files
How to Fix the “C Drive is Full Without Reason” Error?
The C drive filling up without warning was a problem that a user reported on Microsoft Communities. After attempting a number of expert-recommended remedies, the problem was fixed by uninstalling and then reinstalling Microsoft Office. It appears that the user’s MS Office had an issue.
Here are some techniques you can use to free up more space on your C drive and fix the C drive is full problem.
Technique 1. Empty the Recycle Bin
Empty your recycle bin if you’ve run out of space in your storage unit. A share of 5% of the disk drive on your system’s storage is given to the Recycle Bin. Windows immediately deletes the outdated data to make space for the newly deleted data as soon as the Recycle Bin fills to the specified limit. The 5% storage is still being used, unfortunately. You can manually empty the Recycle Bin of all its items.
Follow these steps:-
- Right-click the icon for the recycle bin.
- Select Empty Recycle Bin from the menu.
- Click Yes in the confirmation dialogue box.
Note: By selecting Properties from the menu bar when you right-click the recycle bin icon, you can also modify the storage space allotted to it. Change the Maximum space allowed to the Bin in the new window.
Technique 2. Remove or Move Downloaded Files from C Drive
Everything you download into your computer is automatically stored in the Downloads folder, which is created by default in the C drive. It is possible that some of the huge files in the Download folder are taking up a lot of C Drive space. You can do this by navigating to C: Drive > Users > User Name > Downloads and deleting the files that are located in the Download folder. You can transfer the data to a different drive or external media if they are crucial.
Technique 3. Free Up the Temp Files Folder
The temporary files, also known as temp files, are useless files made for short-term use that are deleted as the related task is finished. However, not all applications and software delete temporary files automatically. The two folders suggested by the following paths are where such files are typically kept:
- %systemdrive%\Windows\Temp
- %userprofile%\AppData\Local\Temp
To free up space, you can allow entry to the temp files folders, choose the files, and trash them. You will receive a warning and be advised not to delete any of those files if Windows uses any of them to run a program. Ignore the above files and delete the remainder.
Technique 4. Minimise System Restore Space
To protect your data and make it accessible in the event of data loss, System Restore sets a number of restore points. The drive volume needs a lot of space for this process. By doing the following actions, you can decrease the amount of space reserved on your hard drive for restore functionality:
- To access properties, right-click the This PC or Computer icon on your computer.
- Choose System Protection from the menu.
- Click Configure in the new window to open.
- Sliders can be adjusted to keep the most recent restore point and remove all previously made restore points. (Set the slider to 5% if you’re unsure. The most recent restoration point and essential files will be saved.)
- Tap Apply.
Technique 5. Delete Unused Programs and Applications
Every software or application you install uses some storage space to store the installation files and temporary data. This data takes up a lot of space because it is all by default stored on your computer’s local storage C.
The techniques below can be used to clear up some space on the C drive by removing some unused or outdated applications and programs.
Note: Choose only the apps and applications about which you are certain. Any system-related program you uninstall could make your system less functional.
- On Windows 11 and 10, open the Control Panel and choose Programs & Features. Choose Uninstall a Program from the Programs tab if you are using Windows 8 or an earlier version.
- Select the apps you no longer want or rarely use and click Uninstall. Click Yes when asked for confirmation.
Note: When you uninstall an application or app, leftover files may take up space but won’t be visible. To remove the traces of uninstalled software from your Windows computer, use CubexSoft File Eraser.
Tips to Avoid the “Local Disk C Full without Reason” Problem
The above issues and solutions are carefully selected by going through the common issues posted on forums and other sites. There are a few suggestions you may make to fix the problem and stop it from happening again. Let’s explore these.
#1. Activate Disk Cleanup
The Windows OS comes with Disk Cleanup by default. It can be used to clean out unused files from your computer. The steps are as follows:
- Open This Computer (Windows 11/10) or This PC (Windows 7).
- To access Properties, right-click the C drive and choose it.
- Select Disk Cleanup from the Local Disk C: Properties window.
- Choose the file types you want to delete in the Disk Cleanup box (Downloaded Program Files, Temporary Internet Files, Recycle Bin, Temporary Files, etc.).
- Select OK. Click Delete Files in the delete confirmation window.
#2. Decrease the size of the WinSxS Folder
Note: The WinSxS folder contains crucial folder files used for Windows installation servicing tasks. Your Windows may become unusable if you delete any of the files.
It’s important to note that the WinSxS folder is located in your C Drive’s Windows folder. It is strongly advised that no data be deleted from it. The WinSxS folder contains directory files that provide functionality for updating and personalising your Windows computer’s operating system. However, you can safely decrease the size of the WinSxS folder and make space on C Drive as follows:
- Search for “task scheduler” in the Windows search box.
- Select the app with the right click, then select Run as Administrator.
- The Task Scheduler Library folder should be double-clicked in the left pane. Expand Windows first, then the Microsoft folder.
- Please choose Servicing from the Windows folder.
Select the StartComponentCleanup and click Run on the far right under the Selected Items tab in the centre pane.
Erase Deleted Items, App Traces, Folders, and Files Permanently
Data is not completely erased from the hard drive by simple deletion. The deleted data is still present on the drive unless it is replaced. By using a trusted file erasure program, such as CubexSoft Data Wipe Tool, you can delete application traces, deleted files, and other pointless and unnecessary data from your system. The software enables you to permanently delete selected files and other data.
CubexSoft Data Destruction Software provides the most adaptable, simple, and secure erasure technique. It has a Scheduler option that allows you to plan your erasing tasks once, daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on your convenience.
Conclusion
There are very few chances of experiencing problems like the C drive becoming full if you have a well-managed system and regularly update and clean up your files. Using Windows’ built-in features, you may manage your machine. However, you can completely delete inactive data from your system’s hard drive by using file eraser software. It will further help in enhancing your PC’s performance. Additionally, it will safeguard your privacy and sensitive personal information.
