Why is my laptop fan always on? Here's how to fix the problem (2023)

Every laptop has at least one fan that keeps internal components cool and protects them from overheating. Generally, this cooling device automatically turns on when CPU usage is high.

Well, it's actually a good thing that the fan runs all the time, since it only regulates the temperature of the system. However, if it works continuously for a long time,clearly indicates that the laptop is overheatingand internal components may be subject to failure.

This can usually happen when the airflow is blocked or due to physical damage. As such, you may find that theFans start to make loud or humming noises. If you have a similar problem, this article will walk you through simple solutions that should help you resolve it.

Why is my laptop fan always on?

If you regularly play high-end games or use resource-intensive apps, you've probably noticed that your laptop's fan is running at full speed. Well, it simply indicates that theCPU or GPU consumes more powerto load the necessary settings,produce more heatas usual.

Also, some users have had an issue that their fans have been working on since launch, which seems to be a real pain in the ass. It may also happen that the fan stays on even when you are not using a program.

11 Ways to Fix Laptop Fans That Are Always On

Repairing a faulty fan can be easy or difficult, depending on the situation. Although some users prefer to disable it, we recommend against doing so. because if afan not workingthere is a risk of damage to overheated components.

Well, your laptop fan runs all the time, probably because you have installed too many resource-intensive apps. So we suggestDelete these unused programs.

Also, CPU usage can reach 10% or more when the operating system is updated. This can cause the fan to run faster, and when the update crashes, the fans stay on even when you're not running a program.

see how you canUpdate your system manuallyto solve this problem. While you're at it, we also suggestChecking and updating corrupt device drivers(especially GPU drivers), as they are also the main reasons for a laptop overheating.

So far, you have only explored the common solutions to fix a faulty laptop fan. Now, without further ado, let's dive into the effective techniques that are supposed to turn on the fans only when necessary.

cool your laptop

If you hear the fan louder than usual, place your hand near the vents and you'll probably find that the airflow is hot. So the ideal solution to prevent this is to cool down your laptop.

Check for bloatware or malware

If your PC is full of bloatware or malware, it is better to remove them with a reliable antivirus program..Fortunately, Windows users can useAntivirus de Microsoft Defender,With it you can perform a complete scan of your computer:

1. Press the start menu and searchwindows security.
2. Start the utility and go toProtection against viruses and threatsSection.
   
3. Under Current threats, clickscan options.
   
4. choose nowfull checkand press the buttonscan nowI like it.
   
5. Wait a few minutes while it scans and removes possible malware from your PC.

Restrict background apps and processes

Another way to ensure that the fan is not running all the time is to limit the use of heavy applications and disable unnecessary background processes.

generally any applicationcpu utilizationfluctuates over time. Well, it's normal for utilization to be between 1 and 10 percent. However, if this is exceeded, your system will likely run hot and increase the fan speed.

Therefore, we recommend disabling any applications or processes that may be running in the background without your knowledge. To do this, follow the instructions below:

1. Use the Ctrl + Shift + Esc key combination to start theWindows Task Manager.
2. On the Processes tab, you'll probably find three sections: Applications, Background Processes, and Windows Processes. Here,Look for programs with the highest CPU usage.
3. Right click on each selected item and select itfinal task.
   

Optimize power settings

Typically, most laptop users prefer active cooling, which increases fan speed to cool down the system. So when the internal components overheat, the fans are on all the time.

On the other hand, adjusting the power settings to passive cooling will slow down the processor before fans can call for help. You may find that yourthe computer slows down.

So if you're happy with a slow computer and want to keep the latest settings, here's what to do in Windows 11:

1. First, use the instant search feature on the Windows taskbar to launch Registry Editor.
2. Here, go to the location belowEnable system cooling policy, which is probably not present on most Windows 11-based laptops:
   HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Power\PowerSettings\54533251-82be-4824-96c1-47b60b740d00\94D3A615-A899-4AC5-AE2B-E4D8F634367F
   
3. Then go to the right panel and double click on Attributes.
4. Then edit the value to 2 and press OK.
   
5. Now go to Control Panel from the Start menu and navigate tosecurity system.
   
6. then selectpower settings.
   
7. Select "Plans shown on battery meter".Change plan settings.
   
8. then clickChange advanced power settings.
   
9. When the Power Options window appears, expand theprocessor power managementThe drop down list.
10. Here, expand System Cooling Policy and set On battery and plugged inSettings for Passive.
11. Finally, tap on the Ok button and that should solve your problem.
    

Also, some popular manufacturers such as DELL and HP recommend adjusting the power mode and using power saving mode to reduceenergy consumption. Basically, this optimizes the temperature of your laptop, thus preventing the fan from running continuously:

1. Disconnect the charger from the laptop first.
2. Then click on the battery icon in the lower right corner of the Windows taskbar.
3. then touchBateriaschonericon to activate it.
   
4. Now press Windows + I, which should open Settings.
5. GonnaSystem>performance and battery.
   
6. Under Power, expand thepower modeThe drop down list.
7. finally selectBetter energy efficiencyor therecommendedoption, depending on which one is available.
   

Disable high-impact startup applications

Although the fans turn on immediately with your laptop, they should stop spinning once the system is running properly. However, it may happen that some startup programs or services use the maximum CPU and keep running in the background.

So if the fans stay on and make loud noises even when the laptop is idling, then these startup apps could be to blame. So the best way to fix this is to disable the programs that run at Windows startup:

1. Launch Windows setup and go toforms>Begin.
   
2. Look for the checked ones in the list of apps"High impact".
3. So,low tideand restart the laptop to see if the problem persists.
   

Bonus tip:You can try performing a clean boot on your laptop to see if startup programs or services are actually causing this problem. You can skip this section if the issue persists as the startup or background apps are not the culprit.

Activate silent mode

Each laptop manufacturer has special software that allows users to control system settings, power management, networking, display, etc. For example, you can use the HP Command Center thermal profile to activate sleep mode, which turns off the fan but reduces CPU performance.

Similarly, Samsung laptops have a dedicated settings app that allows for similar configuration. Here's a quick demo of how to do just that:

1. To search and launch, navigate to the Instant Search menu.samsung settings.
2. In the left panel, select System.
3. Now go to the right and find the silent mode.
   
4. SimplyTurn it on. Done this, thefan speedreduces significantly and your system boots into power saving mode.

Observation:The settings should also be similar on other laptops. You can do a Google search to find the appropriate software for your brand and continue with the steps above.

Reset your BIOS

First, we recommendreset BIOSto restore the system to its original settings. So if the fan runs continuously due to incorrect BIOS settings, then this technique should help.

If you have an outdated BIOS, errors can mess with your hardware components. Therefore, we recommend updating your UEFI/BIOS settings to fix these issues, which shouldFan and CPU power load managementbetter.

However, updating the BIOS can be risky, as failure to do so can cause the motherboard to malfunction. Therefore, you should only do this if absolutely necessary.

Clean fans and ventilation slots.

When fans and vents become clogged with dust and debris, they are likely to block airflow and eventually overheat your laptop. Therefore, your fan starts making noise and keeps trying to cool down the device.

Therefore, it is highly recommended to clean your laptop's fan and vents from time to time to avoid problems:

1. First, shut down your computer and wait for it to cool down.
2. Now,Remove the external battery lockIf available.
   
3. Next, carefully unscrew the back panel of the laptop andOpen the box.
   
4. Then use a can of compressed air.Blow dirt and dust from fans.
   
5. Repeat the process if you have multiple fans.
6. Now use compressed air toblow dust particles out of the ventilation openingsas well as.
   
7. To do this, use a brushClean corners and interior compartments.the fan and ventilation openings.
8. Finally, close the back panel of the laptop and tighten the screws with a screwdriver.

Low Voltage CPU and GPU

As mentioned above, the increased temperature of the GPU and CPU is the reason why your fan is always on. So undervoltage is a great technique to reduce the overheating problem and allow the fan to run only when needed.

It basically means undervoltingPower supply reduction at a constant clock frequencyto ensure that component performance is not affected. However, do not overload your CPU and GPU by doing this, as this can lead to frequent system crashes and crashes.BSD error.

Reapply thermal paste

Thermal paste is another factor that can cause your laptop to overheat. Then when it's dry, your laptop's fan can stay on.

Thermal paste can last three to four years or even longer depending on the heat generated. So if you have a relatively old laptop, it might be time toReapply thermal paste:

1. Shut down your PC and also remove the battery from the laptop.
2. Then use a screwdriver to loosen the screws and remove the bottom panel.
3. Then, loosen the screws on the heat sink that hold it in place.
4. Carefullyremove heat sinkof the laptop motherboard.
   
5. Now use a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcoholclean off the remains of the old thermal paste.
   
6. Then reapply a small amount of thermal paste and spread it over the chip.
   
7. Then screw the heat sink into place and also cover the back of the laptop.
8. Now turn on the system and your problem should be solved.

Replace the fan or upgrade other components

Your laptop's fan is probably bad if none of the above solutions helped. In addition, problems with other hardware components can also occur.

Therefore, the last option is to replace the fan and heatsink. However, we recommend taking your laptop to the retail store to ensure you get a compatible laptop.

But if your fans are fine and the problems are with other hardware components, you may want to upgrade them. In fact, you can follow our two articles that should help you.Upgrade Laptop CPUmiGraphic card.