Why can't Ubuntu Desktop effects be enabled?

Now, I’ve got another problem you Ubuntu users might be able to help me with..
Now all the compizconfig (CCSM) settings can’t be run…
All that work I’ve done… “puff” into nowhere..
I cant’ seem to resume them as I get the message: ” Desktop effects could not be enabled”
Even though I went into CCSM and repeated the whole ‘box-checking’ procedure..
What must I do?
Oh, this happened after my laptop suddenly started to shut down for a few days. (I’m pretty sure this was because of the dusty fan)
Could it be a safety measure ubuntu takes to avoid CPU overheating?
thanks in advance, as usual, guys & gals.