It can be a tad complicated to keep a PC running without problems in the long run. Most users find themselves in a predicament now and then for whatever reason, but a very common issue among computer users is the computer fan making noise.
There can be several causes for this problem, such as:
- Dust buildup may cause the fans to be noisier than usual, which means you may need to clean them.
- If you’ve built your PC, the computer fan noise could also be due to not having mounted your fans correctly, and therefore, they are rattling whenever they operate.
- Your fans may be failing. Sometimes, the fans may stop working for whatever reason, but the sounds may be different based on the source of the issue.
Another common problem for those who experience PC or laptop fan making noise is that their PC is making a “clicking” noise. This could be due to a bad hard drive or perhaps one of the components on the computer is faulty.
Whatever the reason may be, we’ll explore how to make fans quieter and what you can do to prevent your computer from making clicking noises whenever you try to use it.
Why is my computer fan so loud?
If you are wondering why your computer fan is so loud, you are not alone. Here we explain the different reasons why your PC fan is loud on startup and how to fix the computer fan making noise:
Dirty or clogged fan
Dust can accumulate on the fan blades and reduce their efficiency, making them spin faster and louder to cool down your system. Sometimes, the computer fan is loud but not hot. To solve this issue, you can use a can of compressed air or a soft brush to clean the fan and remove any dust gently. You should also make sure that there is enough space around your computer for proper airflow and ventilation.
Old or damaged fan
Another possible cause of PC fans louds when gaming is that they are old or damaged. Over time, the fan bearings can wear out and cause friction, resulting in noise and vibration or the fan in laptop making grinding noise. If this is the case, you may need to replace the fan with a new one. You can check the model and specifications of your fan online or consult a professional technician for assistance.
Fan running at high speed
A third possible cause of a PC fan going crazy is that it is running at high speed due to high CPU or GPU usage. Some applications or processes can consume a lot of resources and generate heat, forcing the fan to work harder to keep your system cool. To fix this issue, you can monitor your CPU and GPU usage using a task manager or a utility software and close any unnecessary programs or background processes. You can also adjust your power settings or fan speed settings to optimize your system performance and reduce noise.
Why is my PC making a clicking noise?
We’ve already explored some of the reasons and fixes to the question “why is my computer fan so loud?” – but sometimes, users also experience their computer making a clicking noise. This issue could be related to your computer fans, and if that is your case, here’s what you can do about it:
Problems with the hard drive
One of the most common sources of clicking noises is the hard disk drive (HDD). HDDs use spinning platters and moving heads to store and access data, and sometimes they can make audible sounds when they are working.
This is normal and usually not a sign of failure unless the noise is loud, frequent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as slow performance, freezing, or error messages. To check the health of your HDD, you can use a tool like CrystalDiskInfo or HDDScan to monitor its temperature, performance, and SMART attributes.
Problems with the fans
Another possible cause of clicking noises is the fan. Fans are used to cool down the components of your PC, and they can get noisy if they are dirty, damaged, or misaligned. To clean your fans, you can use a can of compressed air or a soft brush to remove any dust or debris that might be blocking them.
To check if your fans are working properly, you can use a tool like SpeedFan or HWMonitor to measure their speed and temperature. If your fans are spinning too fast, too slow, or not at all, you might need to replace them or adjust their settings in the BIOS.
Power supply unit (PSU)
A third possible cause of clicking noises is the power supply unit (PSU). PSUs convert the AC power from the wall outlet to the DC power that your PC needs and they can make noises when they are under stress, overheating, or failing.
You can use a tool like OCCT or AIDA64 to run a power supply test and check your PSU’s voltage, current, and efficiency. If your PSU is making abnormal noises or showing signs of instability, you should replace it as soon as possible to avoid damaging your PC.
You may also like: PC Fan Voltage: 5V or 12V?
What else could you consider?
If you’ve tried the solutions we’ve stated above and you’re still wondering, “why is my computer fan so loud,” there are other aspects you can take into account.
Software-related Issues
Sometimes, software can be the culprit behind excessive fan noise. Processes or applications running in the background may be using up system resources and causing the fan to work harder. You should monitor your task manager and close unnecessary programs that can help alleviate this issue.
Fan Control Software
It’s also possible to use fan control software if you would like to keep your computer’s fan in check all the time. This way, you will have full control over them and how they work while you’re using your laptop or computer. It’s one of the best solutions on how to reduce fan noise on PC, as it allows you to monitor the fans and how they’re working constantly.
Conclusion
As we wrap up, it’s clear that a peaceful computing experience begins with understanding and addressing fan noises and clicks. Whether it’s a thorough cleaning or fine-tuning software, there are plenty of ways to achieve a quieter system.
Remember, a well-cared-for PC not only runs smoother but also enjoys a longer lifespan. So, why not give it a try? Dive in, apply these tips, and let your computer’s hum fade into the background of your workday. Embrace the calm of a finely tuned machine!
