From communication to entertainment, laptops are crucial in today’s working environment. However, unlike any technology, laptops require maintenance to function fully. One component that tends to get overlooked is the laptop fan, which aids in cooling and ensuring that the system runs efficiently. An inoperable laptop fan can result in overheating, reduced performance, and in some situations, harm the hardware components of the laptop.
Let’s analyze some of the steps that could help resolve the issues with a broken fan and the reasons that prevent the fan from working.
Laptop Fan Not Working: The Most Common Causes
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Blockage By Dust Particles And Other Debris
Reason:
After a period, grime, dust, and even pet hair tend to build up inside the laptop. This accumulation floors the fan’s ability to spin freely or provide the necessary cooling, which can eventually clog it.
What To Do:
Blowing dust away in fans with compressed air can help. One, does need to turn the laptop off, which is a basic requirement to blow air through the fan vents. To have the best cleaning results, the lid of the laptop should be opened, but that is only recommended if you are a professional.
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Broken Fan’s Motor
Reason:
Due to frequent and prolonged usage, it’s common for the fans to burn out, wear out, or defect, which can be a result of manufacturing issues.
Actions Needed:
In the case of a motor failure, the fan will need replacement. Reach out to an expert who can procure the right part for your vehicle and fix it without breaking other parts.
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Issues with the Motherboard
Causes:
The problem may not be with the fan itself but with the motherboard. If the interface between the motherboard and the fan has an issue, the fan will not be able to receive power and proper command signals.
Actions Needed:
The problem is more intricate and normally requires additional professional assistance. A professional is the only one who can check the motherboard to ascertain if the circuit or the fan controller is the root of the issue.
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Software Glitches or BIOS Errors
Causes:
Often, third-party programs or the BIOS itself control fan speeds and activities. A programming error or a bug in the BIOS may be responsible for the fan not functioning even when it is supposed to.
Actions Needed:
You can access BIOS settings by restarting the laptop and simultaneously pressing either F2, F10, or DEL until the BIOS menu shows up. Ensure that the fan settings in the BIOS are enabled. A simpler solution is to update the BIOS or perform a factory reset.
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Thermal Paste Malfunction and Overheating
Reason:
Your system can overheat if the thermal paste, a compound aiding in transferring heat from the processor to the heat sink, dries up. The overheating may either cause your fan to shut down to avoid further damage or stress it to a breaking point.
What to Do:
Refreshing thermal paste is a challenge, so this requires an expert’s hand. If you believe your laptop is getting too warm to the point of overheating, seeking help becomes critical, and quick action is necessary.
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Damage or Obstruction to the Fan
Reason:
A wire that has come loose or any outside debris can potentially obstruct the fan. The fan can also suffer from damage as the blades could be broken or misaligned.
What to Do:
Look over the vents to check if anything is obstructing them. Obstruction, internal damage, and professional disassembly will need inspection.
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Worn-Out Hardware
Reason:
Component degradation becomes an issue with older laptops. In case the device is a few years old, the expectations of the internal parts, like the fan, undergoing wear and tear, are common.
What to Do:
A shift in perspective towards the system might be necessary with older laptops. Evaluating the overall condition of the system, it may make more sense to replace the fan or even upgrade.
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Issues with Power Supply or Battery
Cause:
Your laptop’s power supply may not be providing reliable power, and as a result, the fan may not be receiving enough power to function. This may occur in faulty batteries or adapters.
Steps to Take:
Make sure you check the power source. If possible, use a different charger or battery. If the fan functions with a different power source, you’ve found the culprit.
Final Thoughts
A malfunctioning laptop fan is no small inconvenience it’s a potential risk to the laptop’s performance as well as longevity. Regardless if the problem is a hardened dust buildup or a more serious hardware issue, prompt resolution is essential in order to mitigate the risk of permanent damage.
If you have a laptop fan issue or any other technical difficulties, feel free to reach out to Geeks Worldwide Solutions. We will promptly, affordably, and expertly breathe life back into your laptop.
Contact details: +1 408-416-3696
