Computer Repair - Upgrade or Replace the Cooling System

The computer cooling system is a vital component in keeping the computer running, so any list of computer repair jobs should include checking this system regularly to ensure that it is still working accurately. Inside the computer, everything that runs, spins or flashes generates heat—the hard drive, the CD player, the motherboard, even the on/off switch. Computer repair professionals report that the most frequent call-outs on their job are to cooling-related incidents: dead fan, computer being overheated by its position in a desk compartment, layers of dust inside the case.

For the more adventurous, it is possible to buy a liquid cooling system; here, the heat caused by the computer is transferred into a heat sink. Air is blown past the sink, and draws heat away with it. The liquid cooling system is often found outside the computer unit, and is plugged into the system via cables, similar to a split air conditioner. Liquid cooling is considered to be much better and more efficient than air cooling, so for computer fans, the answer may be not on constantly performing computer repair techniques on your old computer cooling system, but splashing out on one of these.

The environmentally friendly might also consider installing a computer fan controller, which allows the user to regulate how much cooling the computer requires. These can be inserted into the 5.25 drive bay, and connected to a four-pin plug in the computer's power supply. The fan comes with an outside controller which means that you can control the cooling any time you choose.

Computer repair is often made more difficult by the fact that each computer has its own set of requirements. If you know what kind of computer you have, then it is easier to find the right computer repair instructions. This replacing instruction describes how to handle changing the fan on a Dell Processor, one of the most common computer makers.

Step 1: Preparing the computer

Unplug the computer from all outlets, and remove the computer case access panel at the back of the computer.

Step 2: Taking out the old fan

Remove the large fan connected to the motherboard, and unplug the connection. Unscrew the fan's housing, and then place your new fan on top of the processor's heat sink device, and position the fan so that its screw holes match with the motherboard's.

Step 3: Insert the new fan

Screw in the new fan, until there is a tight fit. Be careful not to screw in too tight, as this can damage the computer. Connect the fan to the motherboard's power cable: the connection will only fit in one way, so make sure you know what you are doing.

Step 4: Check the new fan

Check that the fan works correctly by plugging the computer in, and making sure that the fan is spinning. If it does not spin, turn off the power and re-do the computer repair.

Step 5: Replace the casing

Once everything is working, put the computer case access panel back onto the computer, and screw back in place.