Why Does My Computer Fan Keep Running?
There are many reasons why a computer fan will run all or most of the time. Typically, a computer fan will run off and on while the computer is being used to keep the internal parts of the computer cool. Without these fans, the hardware inside the computer will overheat. However, when a fan runs constantly, it is a sign of a potential hardware problem and should be addressed immediately.
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Dust
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The presence of too much dust inside a computer CPU (central processing unit) or laptop can cause the fan to run constantly. The dirt on the internal components of the hard drive acts as insulation and will cause the temperature of the computer to increase, making the fan run constantly to compensate. If this occurs, the computer can overheat and damage delicate and important computer parts. Clean dust with a vacuum attachment or compressed air can---never blow on internal parts, as the moisture from your breath can cause corrosion and damage.
Room Temperature
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Computers can become damaged if the room temperature or the area directly around the computer exceeds 90 degrees. If the computer is located next to a heater or other area where excessive heat is produced, this can cause the fans to run constantly. Move the computer into a cooler room or a spot with greater air circulation.
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Computer Temperature
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The internal temperature of the computer can also cause the fans to run all the time. This most often occurs when the processor or other computer hardware parts are overclocked, or modified to perform beyond its designed speed. Overclocking the computer processor makes it run faster, but it also causes it to run hot. Additional fans and cooling mechanisms are required to keep an overclocked computer cool.
Blocked Vent
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If the vent to the computer is blocked, there is nowhere for the fan to send the hot air. The hot air is continually recirculated back inside the computer, which keeps the fans operating all the time. The only way to prevent this is to make sure there is at least 6 inches of clear space around a computer. Placing a computer inside a cabinet or desk will also cause the fan to run too much. Computers should be placed in an area that receives plenty of ventilation.
High-resource Program
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Computer fans also run whenever a program that takes a lot of processing power is used. This occurs naturally and is perfectly normal. However, when those programs are allowed to run all the time, the results can be damaging to the computer. This often occurs when a new program is installed on an older system, straining the lower processing power of the older computer. The only way to fix this problem is to install higher-powered fans or upgrade to a newer system.
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References
- Photo Credit computer cooler image by Soja Andrzej from Fotolia.com
