FIXED: CPU Fan Error When Booting PC

The CPU is the largest heating device on the computer. You will see the “CPU fan error” when you boot your computer. When you see this, the CPU is most likely to have a high temperature due to the failed fans.

Is your computer showing a “CPU fan error” when you boot it? You may get stranded on the next step to take to rectify the issue. The error can be triggered after the computer has shut itself due to overheating. The CPU fans may be unable to cool the computer hardware anymore.

If you don’t resolve the matter immediately, it may have adverse effects on other computer hardware components. Alternatively, the error may be caused due to physical damage to the fan, incorrect settings, or other factors like dust.

These are various ways you can use to solve the CPU fan error instantly. They are easy to do and you should make a habit to ensure the error doesn’t come up again.

Method 1: Check the Fan Wiring

The first thing you will need to do is to check the fan wiring. The CPU fan is connected to the motherboard of the power supply. When the wiring is loose, the fan won’t be powered.

You will need to rectify this to ensure it is firm and tightly connected. Check all the fan connections to see whether they are properly fixed.

The other option is plugging the CPU fan header into another port. The power port on the motherboard may have malfunctioned, hence you will need to use another one.

Method 2: Clean the CPU Fans

After using the fan for a long, it will accumulate dust. The lubricating oil in the bearing will decrease, causing the fan to be unable to turn when booting.

Step 1: To rectify this, you will need to open your computer hardware case. Then turn the CPU fan push pins using your fingers or a flat screwdriver counterclockwise at 90 degrees to release them. This action will help to loosen the fan.

Step 2: Remove the fan connector from the fan header. Loosen any kind of wiring and remove the CPU fan from the heat sink.

Step 3: Clean the heat sink with running water and a brush. If the oxidized layer is thick, sand it with 800 GRIT sandpaper. Use it on the heat sink until it is completely clean. Make sure it is completely dry before fixing it back.

Step 5: Take the CPU fan and use a dry brush to brush off the dust. Then use isopropyl alcohol and wipe the CPU fan gently. Clean even the connecting wires.

Step 6:  Attach the CPU fan to the heat sink just as you had removed it. Dip a tissue in isopropyl alcohol and gently remove the thermal paste/heat sink compound from the processor.

Step 7: Clean the CPU cooler gently using isopropyl alcohol. Take thermal paste or heat sink paste, inject the paste to the center of the heat sink, and spread it. Make sure no gaps are left during the spreading of the thermal paste.

Step 8:  Turn the push pins clockwise at 90 degrees to reset them. Press the push-ins well to insert them back to fix them. Plug the fan connector, return the power cord to the correct positions, and power up your computer.

Method 3: Disable the CPU Fan Speed Monitoring in the BIOS

If the fan fails, it may cause the following text to appear on the screen when you boot it up “CPU fan error”.

Step 1: To resolve this, first Press F2 or F12 to enter the motherboard BIOS at boot time.

Step 2: On the boot menu press F7 or click on the advanced mode option at the bottom right corner.

Step 3: On the next page, click on the Monitor option. On CPU fan speed, select “N/A” and change to “Ignore”.

Step 4: Press the F10 button, save by clicking OK, and exit.

Step 5: Restart the computer.

Method 4: Purchase a New CPU Heat Spreader

When the motor of the fan is damaged, I suggest you buy a new one from Amazon. The other option is purchasing a new CPU heat spreader. This will help in the circulation of heat in your computer. If the heat sink is completely damaged it will make your computer not function well. The type of heat sink you purchase will depend on your computer model.

Method 5: Stop Overclocking

Overclocking can be caused by an increase in system heat when it can’t be managed by the CPU fans. This leads to damaged circuits and frequent shutdowns. If the issue is severe, you can replace the CPU fans if broken and in need of replacement.

Please maintain the CPU cooling fans and other components regularly. It is recommended that you clean them every six months, which is conducive to extend their service life. There are a couple of errors related to the CPU and you need to be cautious to ensure your computer functions well at all times.

If the connection is fine, clean up the CPU fans, disable CPU fan speed monitoring, or purchase a new CPU heat spreader. In all these methods, you will find one that will fix your computer issue. You can move your computer to another location if the specific one is dusty.