A CPU fan is a component of a computer that helps keep the processor cool. The fan sits on top of the processor and draws air in through the vents on the side of the computer case. The air is then blown over the heatsink, which is attached to the processor and dissipates the heat.
CPU fans come in a variety of sizes and shapes and can be either standard or low profile. The main difference is the height of the fan. Standard CPU fans are taller than low-profile CPU fans, so they can be mounted in more places.
The CPU fan is usually supplied with a 3V or 5V from the PSU (power supply unit) on laptops and 12V on desktops. This voltage powers the fan and keeps it running. If the fan fails, the computer will overheat and potentially damage the CPU.
A replacement fan can be purchased from most computer hardware stores. The CPU fan is mostly controlled by the BIOS in a stepwise method if the temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold. When the system temperature exceeds the limit, the fan will now usually turn on.
If the CPU fan doesn’t spin, the problem could be anywhere from the fan, the motherboard, to the power supply unit. The fan may be obstructed with dust and lint, so it can’t spin. The wires going to the source of the fan can also prevent the blades of the fan from spinning (these fans don’t have a great deal of torque).
Whatever the cause may be, if your fan does not turn, that could be the problem. If you have occasion for your fan not to operate, a short circuit could be the reason.
Why Did My CPU Cooler Stop Working?
Your CPU cooler may have stopped working for a variety of reasons:
- One of the most common issues that people experience with their computer is a problem with the CPU cooler. This part of the computer is responsible for keeping the processor cool, and when it stops working, the processor can overheat and damage or even destroy the computer. There are several reasons why your CPU cooler might stop working, and some of them are easier to fix than others.
- Another common reason for a CPU cooler to stop working is that it has become clogged with dust or other debris. This can happen over time as the fan circulates air through the cooler. If this is the problem, you can usually clean it out using a can of compressed air. Be sure to hold the can upright so that the air goes into the fan and not outwards into your computer.
- Third possibility is that the fan has failed, in which case the heat sink will become ineffective at dissipating heat.
- Fourth possibility is that the wires to the fan or a weak electrical power supply might be to blame. Wires are often the cause of obstructed blades, as they don’t possess a lot of energy. The issue that wire fans have a slight torque is because of this.
How to Fix a CPU Fan That is Not Spinning?
Since you know exactly why your desktop computer fan began spinning uncontrollably, allow me to show you how you can reverse its faulty operation. If none of the options I listed below get rid of the fan from spinning out of control of your system, then I’m afraid your only alternative is to buy a new desktop computer.
Here are the best ways to repair a laptop fan not spinning:
1. Restart The System
The CPU fan is a part of the computer that helps keep the processor cool. When it does not work, the processor can overheat and cause damage to the computer. One way to fix this problem is to restart the system.
Here is a simple and easy method to restart your PC:
- Click on the Window icon in the Windows taskbar by clicking on the Power button or press CTRL + F4 to access the Windows Restart option directly.
- Click on the Restart option.
Now you need to check if your PC CPU fan is working or not. Mostly this type of method helps you to fix this problem, but if this method not working properly then follow other methods that are given below.
2. Remove All The Dust From Your Fan
Computers, and the various parts that make them up, can be delicate pieces of machinery. One such part is the CPU fan. The fan helps keep the CPU cool by drawing in air and expelling it out of the computer.
Over time, this fan will accumulate dust, which can impact its performance. Computer processors and fans get dirty over time and this can cause the fan not to spin. This can lead to the processor overheating, which could cause permanent damage.
In order to prevent this from happening, it is important to clean your computer fan on a regular basis.
The best way to clean a CPU fan is to separate the fan from your CPU and wash it thoroughly. After washing, you let it dry in the sun for a while and then let it dry.
If you do not want to open the fan, you can easily clean the dust on the fan using a high-speed device. Doing so will cause your computer fan to start working.
3. Verify Proper Connection of the CPU Fan to the Motherboard
Computer processors, or CPUs, generate a lot of heat while in use. If this heat isn’t dissipated properly, the CPU can be damaged. One way to help dissipate the heat is by using a CPU fan.
A CPU fan is connected to the motherboard and helps blow air over the CPU to cool it down. If your CPU fan is not spinning, you need to properly check your CPU fan connection with the motherboard.
When your computer is turned on, the CPU fan should spin. If it doesn’t, the computer may overheat and damage the CPU. When your computer’s CPU fan stops working or stops rotating. So make sure that the CPU fan is connected to your computer’s motherboard.
Follow this method to make sure:
- Open the lid of your computer.
- Verify the CPU fan is plugged into the motherboard. On some motherboards, there are two different color connectors for the CPU fan. Use the black connector if you’re not sure which one to use.
- If you’re using a desktop computer, make sure that your case is properly seated on the motherboard. Screws should be tightened evenly so that there’s minimal pressure on any one part of the motherboard.
- If the CPU fan wire is well connected, try to disconnect the wire from the motherboard once. Blow clean the motherboard connector and re-connect the CPU fan wires to the motherboard. I hope this method helps you to get your computer’s CPU fan spinning again.
4. Reinstall the CPU Fan to Fix a CPU Fan Not Spinning
If your CPU fan isn’t spinning, there’s a good chance it needs to be reinstalled.
Here’s how to do it:
- Shut down your computer and unplug it from the wall.
- Remove the side panel of your computer case.
- Locate the CPU fan. It should be plugged into a port on the motherboard, and there should be a small wire connector coming out of the fan that plugs into the motherboard.
- Unplug the connector from the motherboard and remove the CPU fan from your computer case.
- Install the new CPU fan by plugging in the connector to the motherboard and installing the fan in your computer case. Make sure it’s properly seated in place so that it will spin freely.
- Plug in your computer to the wall and turn it on, and now you can see that your CPU fan working normally.
5. Refresh Your CPU Bearing
When your CPU fan isn’t spinning, it’s likely that the bearing needs to be refreshed. You can do this by applying a small amount of oil to the shaft of the fan. Be sure to use light oil, such as 3-in-1 or sewing machine oil.
Do not use WD-40 or any other type of heavy oil, as this will only make matters worse.
Once you’ve applied the oil, give the fan a few spins by hand. If it’s still not spinning, you may need to replace the bearing. You can do this by removing the fan and taking it to a hardware store or electronic parts supplier.
6. Reset Your BIOS
If your CPU fan isn’t spinning, it might be because the BIOS has been configured to run the fan at a slower speed than it is capable of.
To fix this, you can reset the BIOS to its default configuration.
- Power off your computer.
- After a few seconds press the Power button on your computer.
- To reset the BIOS, you’ll need to enter the BIOS Setup Utility. This is usually done by pressing a key such as F2 or Del during the computer’s startup sequence.
- Once in the BIOS, look for a Menu option that allows you to reset the BIOS to its default settings.
- Once the BIOS has been reset, restart your computer and check to see if the CPU fan is now spinning correctly.
7. Replace Your Power Supply Unit
Your computer’s power supply unit (PSU) is one of the most important pieces of hardware in your system. Not only does it provide power to your system, but it also distributes that power evenly, ensuring that all of your components are getting the necessary voltage. If your PSU fails, it can cause all sorts of problems, including a CPU fan that doesn’t spin.
If you’re experiencing this issue, the first thing you should do is replace your PSU. This will ensure that you’re getting the most out of your system and that all of your components are receiving the proper amount of power.
Once you’ve replaced your PSU, test your computer to see if the CPU fan is spinning properly.
Frequently Ask Questions
Should CPU Fans Ever Stop Spinning?
The short answer to this question is no. Fans inside of CPUs should always be spinning to help keep the processor cool. If they stop spinning, it can cause the CPU to overheat and potentially damage the chip.
There are a few rare instances where a CPU fan may stop spinning. One possibility is if there is too much dust or dirt buildup on the fan. If this is the case, the fan may need to be cleaned in order to start spinning again. Another possibility is that there may be a problem with the fan itself and it will need to be replaced.
Overall, though, it’s important for CPU fans to keep spinning in order to keep the processor cool. If they stop spinning, it could lead to serious damage.
Can A PC Work Without A Fan?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual PC and the level of heat that it produces. Some PCs can work without a fan, while others require one in order to keep the system temperature within safe levels.
In general, if your PC is producing a lot of heat, you will need to use a fan in order to keep the system running safely. If your PC is not producing a lot of heat, you may be able to get away without using a fan. Ultimately, it is up to the individual user to decide whether or not they want to use a fan.
Can I Run My PC Without A CPU Fan?
Yes, you can run your PC without a CPU fan. However, if you do not have a CPU fan, your PC may overheat and damage your components.
How Long Can A Computer Run Without A CPU Fan?
The fan is important for the longevity of a CPU. The fan helps keep the CPU at a cooler temperature, which prevents the destruction of the internal mechanisms of the CPU. Without the fan, the CPU will overheat and be ruined in a matter of minutes.
The fan should always be running when the computer is on to keep the CPU cool.
How Do You Clean A CPU Fan Without Removing It?
If your CPU fan is dirty, it can cause your computer to overheat. You can clean it without removing it from the motherboard by using a vacuum cleaner. Attach the vacuum cleaner’s hose to the fan and turn it on. The suction will remove the dirt and dust from the fan. Be careful not to damage the fan blades.
You can also clean the fan by using a compressed air canister. Hold the canister upright and spray the air onto the fan blades. The air will dislodge the dirt and dust, which will be sucked up by the vacuum cleaner.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article will help you to fix a CPU fan when it’s not spinning, or not working properly. There are several ways to fix a CPU fan not spinning. If the fan is not spinning, it is likely that the blades are dirty or there is something blocking the airflow.
The easiest way to fix this is to clean the blades or remove the obstruction. If the fan is not spinning because of a faulty motor, it may be possible to replace the motor. However, if the fan is not spinning because of a broken circuit board, it may be necessary to replace the entire unit.
