How to Change the Cooling Fan in a Laptop PC
Because of their compact size, maintenance on a laptop computer can seem like a difficult task. This usually isn't the case, as the insides of most laptop computers are well organized. Replacing a cooling fan doesn't take long, and the biggest hurdle is knowing where the fan is placed and how to get to it. Not all laptops are assembled the same way, so only someone with experience working on computers or someone that has a user's manual handy should try to open a laptop and work on it.
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Things You'll Need
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Static-free cloth (optional)
- Silicone grease
- User manual (optional)
Instructions
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1
Open the laptop case. Normally this is done by flipping the laptop upside-down and removing the screws that can be found on the bottom. Look at the screws carefully before removal and select the appropriate screwdriver to avoid stripping the heads and making them impossible to remove. Consult the owner's manual for instructions on how to open the case if it is not a traditional laptop case or any problems arise.
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2
Locate the cooling fan. The cooling fan will always be located along the edge of the laptop. If it is not immediately visible, there could be another object in the way. Look for a grill in the laptop case that allows ventilation. The fan will be in that area. If something is blocking access to the fan, like a fan shield or board, remove it carefully and set it to the side.
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3
Remove the old fan. Unplug the power cable to the fan. Remove the screws holding the fan in place. Pull up firmly on the fan and remove it from the laptop.
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4
Clean off the silicone grease by rubbing it lightly with your thumb to ball it up and pull it off, or use a static-free cloth to wipe it. Apply a light bead of fresh silicone grease and put the new cooling fan in place.
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5
Plug in the new cooling fan, tighten the screws to hold it in place and reassemble the laptop computer.
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Tips & Warnings
If the original owner's manual for the computer has been lost, most computer manufacturers offer free manual downloads on their websites.
If the replacement fan is a more powerful fan than the original, check the power specifications to see if it will run in the laptop. Some fans require more power than a laptop battery can easily provide and will greatly reduce the amount of time a computer can be used before being plugged in.
References
- Photo Credit cooling fan image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
