Do you know that your CPU cooling fan may stop functioning, just as RAM and Hard drives can?
A broken fan is harmful to the processor and can cause several issues in the PC.
The problem is that many users dont know how to tell if the CPU fan is failing.
So, tag along.
pop swing open the case and look at the fan.
If you see the fan is not rotating, it means it isnt working.
Also, unusual fan movement and spinning sound indicate the cooling fan is faulty.
Looking at those signs, you might test whether the desktops and the laptops CPU fan are operating.
Check out those signs below.
While the fan is working, a light humming sound will always come from your desktop or laptop computer.
If there isnt any, it means the fan is dead.
Unusual or loud noise from the CPU fan should be your second sign to know the fan is broken.
A low-level whizzing sound you should hear while the fan is healthy.
You may read our other guide to knowwhy your cooler is making loud noise.
Your nose can be a great ally to detect a broken CPU fan.
If the fan is damaged due to burning, a flaming stink will come out of your PC.
When you get some kind of burning smell, you’re free to know your heatsink is defective.
The primary purpose of a CPU fan is to keep the processor cool.
Check theCPU temperatureand if its overheating, this can be due to a faulty or broken fan.
All modern CPUs have a built-in thermal protection system.
When the PC gets overheated, it shuts down.
Also, a sudden BSOD appearance due to overheating indicates your fan is busted.
For additional information, see the article:how to tell if a CPU cooler is bad.
What Causes the CPU Fan to Stop Working?
Dustis the main culprit that stops the CPU fans from functioning.
Dust is the one thing you will find in every corner of the world.
And at some point, it stops working.
Modern CPU fans have bearings that help reduce friction between rotating and moving parts.
It provides the fan to operate smoothly.
But over time, the fans bearing starts to degrade.
And this degradation of bearings causes the fan to stop working.
Most users dont provide their PC proper air ventilation.
Thats why the air filter blocks and the computer overheats.
Due to overheating, the processors cooling system can break down.
Overheating also causes a failing thermal paste issue, which is bad news for a cooling fan.
What Will Happen If a CPU Fan Fails?
If the CPU fan fails and stops working, the PC will automatically shut off after a few moments.
The processor will damage due to overheating without a working cooling fan.
This damaged CPU can also destroy other important hardware components like the motherboard.
Its a terrible state for a PC when the CPU fan stops functioning.
A dead heatsink will cause a lot of issues in the PC.
Most of the time, the PC wont turn on.
Also, keep the PC in a place that is a dust-free zone and has aspace for proper airflow.
Additionally, stop overclocking and include adequate cooling if necessary.
To clean the CPU fan, use a small-headed brush and microfiber cloth.
Do the cleaning every six months.
This way, dust wont be able to stop the fan from working.
You must avoid overclocking as much as possible to keep your cooling fan and processor well-maintained.
It will help reduce the load on your CPU fan and prevent it from damaging.
You shouldreplace the fanif it becomes too noisy.
Check out our experts opinion aboutwhether it is worth getting an expensive CPU cooler.
Note: Dont use your setup as long as you dont replace your broken CPU fan.
FAQs
Why did my CPU fan suddenly stop working?
When too much dust builds in the CPU fans and gets clogged up, the CPU fans stop working.
What is the lifespan of a PC fan?
A desktop computer fan can last up to 5 to 6 years on average.
On the other hand, a laptop fan can give service for close to 9 to 10 years.
How long can a PC run without a CPU fan?
The processor heats up fast.
Ending Remarks
Its nearly impossible to repair a broken cooling fan.
It will be a wise idea to get a better cooling fan.
I hope you wont have any problem further detecting any broken CPU fan.
Comment below if you have any queries.
