Hatrack River Forum: Computer fan question

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Posted by Tullaan (Member # 5515) on :

Recently my computer has been making a lot more noise. I opened the case up and did the routine 'clean the dust out' stuff. The noise remained, so I stopped each fan briefly with my finger and isolated the noisy one. And that's where I'm at now.

So....

How hard is it to replace a CPU fan?
How exspensive are they?
Do you have to buy a specific fan to fit the motherboard/CPU?

Posted by lem (Member # 6914) on :

There may be a fix for the fan on your computer. If it is already detatched, look at the side with either a sticker or flap you can pop off. If it is sticker peel it back.

It will reveal a hole big enough for a drop of oil. Put in a drop of oil (careful it doesn't get on exterior of fan or sticker won't stick) or graphite and replace the sticker.

Move the fan with your finger. It should move much more freely and stop the noise.

If that doesn't work, then you need a new fan. Is it a cpu fan or video card fan?

EDIT..oops just saw it was a CPU fan.

Posted by Jon Boy (Member # 4284) on :

They're pretty easy to replace, though prices really vary. Something comparable to the stock fan and heatsink should only be about 10 or 15 dollars. If you want something quieter or more efficient—like a solid copper heatsink with a large, quiet fan—prices start going up. It does need to be compatible with your CPU socket, though many heatsinks will be compatible with multiple sockets. What kind of CPU do you have?

Posted by BaoQingTian (Member # 8775) on :

Probably the bearing went out.

They are not too difficult to replace (as in require no technical knowledge), but it can require a little bit of scary force to do.

Cost depends on the CPU...you should be able to find decent ones around $10-15

You don't need to buy a specific fan for the motherboard, only the CPU. However, watch for clearance issues with the case and motherboard. Some of the aftermarket fans (as opposed to OEM) are HUGE.

Posted by BaoQingTian (Member # 8775) on :

Errr, yeah what Jon said too

Posted by Earendil18 (Member # 3180) on :

quote:
Originally posted by lem:
Put in a drop of oil (careful it doesn't get on exterior of fan or sticker won't stick) or graphite and replace the sticker.

EDIT..oops just saw it was a CPU fan.

I was going to say... [Eek!]

Posted by lem (Member # 6914) on :

I have saved a few CPU fans with a drop of oil. It doesn't work if the noise is caused by a wobbling fan. Oil works wonders if the fan is grinding.

Posted by Tullaan (Member # 5515) on :

Wow, thanks for all the info.

I have an athalon 3000 (I think). Definatly athalon. I'm at work, so can't look at it at the moment.

Should I buy a fan and heat sink together? or just the fan?

Tull

Posted by Jon Boy (Member # 4284) on :

Definitely Athlon, not Athalon. [Razz]

You typically can't buy a CPU heatsink fan without a heatsink. And if you slap a new fan on there yourself, there's a chance you might not get it tightened down properly, in which case it'll vibrate itself to death.

Do you know if your processor is a socket 754 or 939? There are Athlon 3000s in both. However, I think most heatsinks that are compatible with one are compatible with the other. If you're not sure, make sure you get one that's compatible with both.

Here's a good place to look. Use the drop-down menu under Compatibilty. If you want something nice and quiet, try to stick to under 21 decibels.

Posted by Swampjedi (Member # 7374) on :

Computer Fan Question...

Apple or PC?

You know, as in computer fan, short for fanatic? Sorry.