this message is kinda late
but i hope this help
i think 54 degree is very hot
that is not the normal temp
like i download this program called speedfan
http://www.almico.com/sfdownload.php
it monitors the temp. and does more-even controls the fans
but i haven't used this feature yet
i did an analysis of the temp of my hard drive using the s.m.a.r.t feature from
this program....this is what it read

"Your hard disk is a TOSHIBA MK6032GSX with firmware AS312D.
The average temperature for this hard disk is 40C (MIN=30C MAX=53C) and yours is 41C." from the website above. (this is good!)
i think dell turns on the fan at 50C

when im using my laptop i place it on top of a thick book like an almanac (and only the front side is touching the floor the back side is resting on top of the book-note i only insert the book half way like an 2 inches so not to block the bottom of laptop completely and cover the heat exhausts)to allow circulation
this does the job well..unless u have ac then this is best thing to
have than buying more fans...