If you use a laptop regularly, you must be aware of how quickly limited space and ventilation can cause heat buildup. Laptop fans help to blow the hot air generated from internal components through a vent in the side of the laptop housing.
However, if your laptop fan has stopped working, you must replace or install a new one as soon as possible to prevent any long-term damage.
In this particular blog post, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to replace or install a laptop fan, including increasing the laptop fan’s speed.
Importance of a Laptop Fan
Laptops generate a significant amount of heat due to their compact size and internal components’ close proximity.
If not managed properly, this heat can damage internal components and reduce the laptop’s lifespan. A laptop fan is an essential part of a laptop’s cooling system that helps to maintain the CPU’s temperature and prevent overheating.
It blows hot air generated from internal components through a vent in the side of the laptop housing, thus maintaining the temperature and keeping the laptop functioning optimally.
Step No 1: Follow the Owner’s Manual
The first step in installing or replacing a laptop fan is to carefully follow your laptop owner’s manual and assembly guide as you disassemble the laptop.
Touch something metal periodically to remove static charge, and work on a large table with a bright light source.
This will ensure that you do not damage any components of your laptop.
Step No 2: Turn off the Laptop and Unplug It
Before beginning any work on your laptop, make sure to turn it off and unplug it. Then, remove the main battery, CD/DVD drive, and hard drive.
The hard drive is usually located in a slot on one side of the laptop. Remove the screw that holds the cover in place, then pull out the hard drive sled.
Step No 3: Remove the Keyboard
Turn the laptop over and remove the screws on the bottom that hold the keyboard in place. Flip the laptop over, open it, and lift the keyboard up and out.
Unplug the flexible ribbon cable that connects the keyboard to the motherboard.
Step No 4: Remove the Keyboard Bezel and Palm Rest
Remove the screws that hold the keyboard bezel and palm rest in place. Carefully pry loose any plastic snaps on the sides, then lift the bezel and palm rest up and out.
Step No 5: Remove the Fan and Heat Sink
Unplug the laptop fan. Remove the screws that hold the heat sink and fan in place, then remove the entire unit from the laptop. Remove any thermal compound residue from the bottom of the heat sink and the CPU.
Step No 6: Apply Thermal Compound
Apply a thin layer of thermal compound on the CPU, then replace the heat sink and fan. Replace the screws, plug the fan back in, then reassemble the laptop.
Step No 7: Test the Laptop
Plug the laptop in and turn it on. After you use it for a few minutes, you should hear the new fan running and feel warm air blowing from the vent on the side of the laptop.
A laptop fan does not run continuously, so don’t be concerned if the fan shuts off periodically.
How to Increase the Laptop Fan Speed
As businesses increasingly rely on laptops for their operations, ensuring that these devices perform at optimal levels becomes a priority.
However, overheating is a common problem that can impede the performance of a laptop and even result in the loss of important data. One way to tackle this issue is by increasing the speed of the CPU fan.
But, don’t worry we have a guide on how to increase laptop fan speed, you just need to follow these steps. Let’s get started.
Step 1: Access Control Panel To begin, go to the Start menu and select “Control Panel.”
Step 2: Navigate to Power Options Click on “Hardware and Sound” and then select “Power Options” from the menu that appears.
Step 3: Customize Power Plan Settings In the “Power Options” window, click on “Change Plan Settings” and then select “Change Advanced Power Settings.” This will open up the “Power Options” dialog box.
Step 4: Select Advanced Settings From the “Power Options” dialog box, select the “Advanced Settings” tab.
Step 5: Processor Power Management Click on the plus symbol beside “Processor Power Management” to open up an options submenu.
Step 6: System Cooling Policy From the submenu, select “System Cooling Policy.”
Step 7: Adjust System Cooling Policy Click on the down arrow located below “System Cooling Policy” to open up a drop-down menu.
Step 8: Choose Active From the drop-down menu, select “Active” to increase the speed of your CPU’s cooling fan.
Step 9: Apply and Save Settings Once you have made your selection, click on “Apply” and then “OK” to save your settings.
FA’s: How to Replace or Install a Laptop Fan
Can You Install a Fan on a Laptop?
No, you cannot install a fan on a laptop. However, you can open it up and clean the heatsinks. Additionally, you can use a laptop cooler, which is a base you put under your laptop to get more cooling from the underside. The best course of action is to clean the fan and heatsink. Depending on the fan, you can probably clean and re-grease it.
Why Is My Laptop So Hot?
A laptop can overheat if the internal components are clogged with dust, preventing clean airflow. The problem could also arise if the CPU’s thermal paste has worn off, leading to inefficient thermal management. Furthermore, the laptop’s internal cooling components, such as the heat sink or cooling fans, could malfunction, causing the device to overheat.
Do Laptops Overheat Fast?
Overheating in laptops is common, and many laptop owners have experienced it. Aging laptops may overheat due to internal hardware problems that most people may be unable to fix. However, the most common cause of overheating is a lack of adequate airflow within the machine.
Can I replace my laptop fan myself?
Yes, you can replace your laptop fan yourself by following the steps outlined in this guide. However, if you are not confident in your technical skills, it is best to seek professional help.
How do I know if my laptop fan needs to be replaced?
If your laptop is overheating frequently, making loud and unusual noises, or shutting down unexpectedly, it is likely that your laptop fan needs to be replaced.
How long does a laptop fan last?
A laptop fan can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years, depending on usage and the quality of the fan. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prolong its lifespan.
Conclusion: How to Replace or Install a Laptop Fan
replacing or installing a laptop fan is a straightforward process that can be done without professional help. However, it is essential to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging your laptop’s internal components.
Regular maintenance and cleaning of your laptop fan can help extend its lifespan and prevent overheating issues. If you are not confident in your technical skills, it is best to seek professional help.
With proper care and maintenance, your laptop fan can last anywhere from 2 to 5 years, depending on usage and the quality of the fan.
