Why is my computer’s fan not running?

There are many possible reasons why your computer’s fan is not running. It is important to double-check the hardware and peripherals connected to your system to make sure they are functioning correctly and not causing any issues with the fan. Below, you’ll find a list of common issues that can cause the fan to not run.

1. Power Supply: The power supply is responsible for providing the power necessary for all parts of the computer to function properly. If the power supply is malfunctioning, it may not be providing enough power to the fan. You should check to make sure the power supply is connected properly, and that the power cable is fully inserted into the power outlet. If these steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to replace the power supply.

2. Overheating: If the internal components of your computer are becoming too hot, the fan will not run because it is designed to cool down the system. Overheating can be caused by dust build up on the internal components, or by excessive usage of the processor or other components. It is important to clean out the interior of your computer regularly to keep the components from over-heating. You can also reduce the processor usage by closing any unnecessary programs.

3. Broken Fan: In some cases, the fan can become damaged or broken. This can be caused by physical damage or wear and tear over time. To check if the fan is working properly, you can use a screwdriver to give the fan a spin. If the fan does not spin, you may need to replace it.

4. Fan Settings: Some computers have fan settings that can be adjusted in the BIOS. If the fan settings have been tampered with, it may have caused the fan to not run. To access the BIOS, you will need to restart your computer and enter a specific key combination during the boot process. Once inside the BIOS, you can check to make sure the fan settings are set to a normal level.

5. Software Issues: If the fan was running correctly before, the issue may be related to software or system settings. A virus or corruption in the system files can cause the fan to not work correctly. To fix this issue, you can try troubleshooting the system with a disk repair utility. You can also try restoring your system to an earlier point in time.

In general, the most common cause of a fan not running is a hardware issue such as a broken fan or overheating components. However, software issues cannot be ruled out either. If you are having trouble diagnosing the issue, it is recommended that you take your computer to an authorized service center to get it checked out.