cgdirector.com
What to Do When Your GPU Fans Aren't Spinning
Curated by
mranleec
5 min read
256
When GPU fans don't spin, it can be alarming for users, but it's often not a serious issue. Many modern graphics cards feature a "zero RPM" mode, which means the fans stay off during low-demand tasks to save energy and minimize noise. However, there are other reasons for this, such as a poor power supply, dust, driver issues, incorrect fan settings, hardware failures, problems with the PCIe slot, temperature limits, software conflicts, and physical blockages.
Common Causes of Non-Spinning GPU Fans
Andrey Matveev
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unsplash.comGPU fans might not spin for several reasons, including design features or hardware problems. Here are some usual reasons why GPU fans don't turn on:
- Zero RPM mode: Many new graphics cards have this feature to save power and reduce noise by keeping fans off during light use.12
- Insufficient power supply: Low wattage or loose connections can stop fans from working.23
- Dust accumulation: Dust on fan blades or in the heatsink can block fan movement.2
- Driver issues: Old, damaged, or wrongly installed graphics drivers can cause problems with fan control.24
- Fan curve settings: Wrong fan settings in GPU software can stop fans from turning on at the right temperatures.35
- Hardware failure: Broken fan motors, damaged blades, or issues with fan control can cause fans not to spin.24
- PCIe slot problems: A faulty slot can affect GPU performance and fan operation.6
- Temperature threshold not reached: Some GPUs only turn on fans when they get hot enough.14
- Software conflicts: Issues between different monitoring or overclocking programs can disrupt fan control.2
- Physical obstructions: Objects or poorly placed cables can block fan movement.2
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Checking Power Supply and Connections
superuser.com
To guarantee your GPU has the correct power supply and connections, follow these instructions:
- Turn off your computer and disconnect it from the power outlet.
- Remove the case and find the GPU and its power connections.
- Make sure all power cables are tightly connected to both the GPU and the power supply unit (PSU)1.
- Check that your PSU has enough wattage for your GPU and other parts2.
- Look at the PCIe slot for any damage or dirt that might disrupt power flow3.
- If you can, use a multimeter or PSU tester to check the voltage output of the PSU12.
- Remove any dust from the GPU's heatsink and fan blades to help with cooling3.
- Reconnect all cables, close the case, and turn the system back on.
- Keep an eye on GPU temperatures and fan speeds with software during heavy use or gaming4.
- If problems continue, think about updating GPU drivers or checking for hardware issues5.
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Inspecting for Physical Obstructions
reddit.com
To check your GPU for any blockages and physical obstructions, follow these steps for safe and effective cleaning:
- Turn off your computer and unplug it before you open the case.
- Look at the GPU fans and heatsink for any dust or debris.
- Use compressed air to remove loose dust, keeping the fan blades still to avoid damage.
- Carefully clean the fan blades with a soft brush or a cotton swab with isopropyl alcohol.
- Check for any cables or objects that might block the fan movement.
- Clean the heatsink fins with compressed air or a soft brush to help with cooling.
- Look at the PCIe slot for dust and clean it if needed.
- For tough dirt, use a lint-free cloth that is slightly wet with isopropyl alcohol.
- Let all parts dry completely before putting everything back together.
- After cleaning, keep an eye on GPU temperatures and fan speeds during heavy tasks or gaming to make sure everything works well12.
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Adjusting Fan Settings in Software
community.amd.com
To modify GPU fan settings using programs like MSI Afterburner, follow these steps:
- Download and install MSI Afterburner or the control software from your GPU maker.
- Open the program and find the fan control area.
- Turn on manual fan control by switching the right option.
- To turn off zero RPM mode, set a minimum fan speed, like 30%, for lower temperatures.
- Create a custom fan curve by adjusting the points on the graph to balance temperature and fan speed.
- Make sure fan speeds increase gradually, reaching 100% when temperatures hit around 80-85°C for the best cooling during heavy tasks.
- Save the new settings and test them in games or benchmarking software.
- Keep an eye on temperatures and fan speeds to ensure your new setup cools well without too much noise.
- If you still have problems, look for driver conflicts or check if your graphics drivers are outdated.
- For ongoing issues, think about doing a clean driver install or checking for hardware problems.
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Updating or Reinstalling Drivers
drivereasy.com
To refresh or reinstall your GPU drivers and fix any software issues, do the following process:
- Get Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) from the official site1.
- Download the newest GPU driver from your manufacturer's site (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel)2.
- Turn off your internet to stop Windows from installing drivers automatically1.
- Start your PC in Safe Mode2.
- Open DDU and pick your GPU type (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel)1.
- Select "Clean and restart" to delete old drivers1.
- After your PC restarts, install the driver package you downloaded, choosing only the GPU driver parts1.
- Restart your computer to finish the installation1.
- Reconnect to the internet and look for any driver updates2.
- Use GPU software to set fan settings and make a custom fan profile if needed3.
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Closing Thoughts on What to Do When Your GPU Fans Aren't Spinning
Keeping your GPU running well and cool is important for any gaming setup. This guide helps you troubleshoot fan problems, from fixing fan failures to changing fan settings. Regularly clean dust from the fan blades and heatsinks, check power connections, and update your drivers. If issues continue, try making a custom fan profile, reinstalling drivers, or checking for hardware problems. Be aware that strange noises or high temperatures during heavy use can signal issues. By following these tips and using tools like MSI Afterburner, you can make sure your graphics card works well, balancing performance and noise. Proper care of your GPU will lead to a better gaming experience and a longer life for your hardware.
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Related
How can I balance fan noise and cooling efficiency
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What are the signs of a failing GPU fan
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