GPU fans are often reported to stop halfway. It can be due to various errors present in the system or the GPU. But it can also be due to any default setting done by the manufacturer. It is advisable to confirm the error before proceeding to find a solution.
Here is some authentic information on the reasons for the error and the best ways to solve it.
Why is a Fan Necessary for GPU?
A fan is essential for a GPU to avoid overheating.GPU handles some heavy workloads. Thus, it tends to collect heat pretty quickly. Without facilities to cool down the GPU, it would damage the system.
GPU usually has a heat sink in it. This heat sink manages the temperature rise within the system to an extent. After a point, this heat sink won’t contain the rising heat. This is where a GPU fan becomes essential.
The GPU fan always remains idle. But once a high rise in temperature occurs inside the GPU, the fans start spinning. The air from the GPU fan collects the heat from the heat sink and expels it.
Does GPU Fans Always Spin?
GPU fans need not spin always. Its functioning primarily depends on the model of the computer. Most systems keep the GPU fans idle when the user starts using the GPU. The initial functioning of the GPU does not create much heat.
But when the heat rises, and the GPU sink cannot control it, the system enables the GPU fans. These fans then remove the excess heat from the system through the system cover. The temperature at which the system allows for the GPU fans is usually between 50 and 55 degrees Celsius.
There are some other system models where the GPU fans are always active. But, the fans remain extremely slow most of the time. They only increase the speed whenever a requirement is there.
Is It Normal for GPU Fans to Not Spin?
It can be normal for GPU fans not to spin. As mentioned, it does not always spin whenever you switch on the system. Some fans are programmed to remain immobile. They will move only when they detect an alarming rate of temperature inside.
Many computer models allow the GPU fan to move whenever the GPU is put for high usage. Because a continuous spinning of GPU fans may need high power.
Also, when the GPU fans are functioning, they make some noise. So, many manufacturers prefer the fans to be immobile when they are not required so that the noise can be avoided.
In short, it can be normal for GPU fans not to spin. It can be a feature of the particular system and not an error. To confirm this, you can go to the control panel settings of your GPU. You can find information on whether the GPU fan is set to only function under certain conditions.
Some GPU settings may have also enabled a manual controlling option for the GPU fan. If this is the case, the user has to change the settings accordingly for the fans to start spinning correctly.
GPU Fans Spin Then Stop
Even though GPU fans are crucial for GPU’s functioning, many users face issues where the GPU fans spin then stop. This is a severe problem, as the GPU can get overheated without the fan service.
There could be many reasons for the malfunctioning of the GPU fan. Here are some of the most known reasons for the issue.
1. Maybe a Default Feature
- The manufacturers may set the GPU to stop spinning once the temperature is under control.
- This setting is widely used to avoid high power consumption.
- You can confirm this case by checking the GPU control panel settings.
2. Issue with The Fan Curve
- Most computer models come with a customizable fan curve.
- A fan curve lets the user adjust the speed of the GPU fans.
- The GPU fans may stop if the fan curve has been accidentally reduced to a low level.
- You can check and reset the fan curve to make the fans spin again.
3. Error in power Supply
- GPU fans need enough power to function correctly.
- If they are not receiving enough power, they may stop halfway.
- You should check whether the power connection is proper. It would be best to also look for any damage to the power cables.
4. Lack of Cleaning
- GPU fans get stuck due to dust or debris in it.
- It is essential to clean the GPU fans occasionally.
- You can switch off the computer and check the GPU for dust or debris.
- You can use compressed air to clean the fans properly.
GPU Fans Spin for a second, Then Nothing: Solutions
Here are some easy ways to avoid the stopping of GPU fans halfway.
1. Restarting the Computer
Restarting the computer helps to identify whether your GPU fans are damaged. Because, on restart, the system operates every fan on it. If your GPU fans are not spinning even after a restart, it means that they are somehow damaged.
2. Check the Power Cables
Some new graphics cards and fans require an additional power supply to function. You should check these extra cables to ensure you provide adequate power to the unit. Even if you have all the cables, you can remove them and plug them back in.
3. Clean the GPU and Fans
Opening the case and removing the graphics card and fans is advisable to give them a good clean. Dust and debris can often block the fans from spinning. Removing the dust will let the fans spin again.
4. Updating the GPU Drivers
Software glitches can also cause the GPU fans to stop spinning. It is recommended to update the drivers to their latest versions. Driver updates usually fix software errors on their own.
5. Adjusting the GPU Fan Curve
You can go to the graphics card settings and change the default settings. Changing the default settings would let you change the fan curve. You can increase the spinning speed of the fan on the curve. This may bring the fans back to full operational mode.
6. Testing the GPU
The fans can stop working if the GPU has any errors. So, removing the GPU from your system and using it in another one is advisable. If the GPU fans are not working on that system, it could be the issue with the graphics card.
Conclusion
Fans are unavoidable for the proper functioning of GPU. If you cannot figure out why the fans stop spinning, it is better to consult a professional. You can try the above-mentioned tips to solve the issue on your own. If none work, you should consider returning the GPU to the manufacturer. You can replace the GPU with a new one for better performance.
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