How to Install a Motherboard Fan

Motherboard fans are found on most desktop and laptop computer motherboards. Processor fans are also important for the computer. Both these fans keep the computer at safe temperatures. The motherboard fans cool the chipsets on the motherboard and are about 60 mm. They can produce high-pitch noises because of their size. They are typically installed in the CPU with the motherboard and not sold individually. Their size also affects the amount of air flow produced.

Step 1 – Checking the Warranty

A computer motherboard fan can be installed or replaced without having a great deal of technology knowledge or special computer tools. If your computer motherboard warranty is still valid, contact the manufacturer about having the motherboard replaced. This may require you sending in the damaged part and awaiting the arrival of the new one. Replacing the part yourself while the unit is still under warranty could render the warranty agreement null and void.

Step 2 – Safety

Turn off the power switch on the computer. Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet. Never put your hands into the computer casing when the power supply is connected. Be sure to wear protective eye wear to prevent any injury to your eyes or damage to your vision from pieces accidentally flying out of the computer while you are installing the unit.

Step 3 – Opening the Computer Case

Examine your computer case to see how the cover is secured. Some computer case doors are made to simply slide of the CPU. Others require that screws or clips be loosened before the door can be removed.

Step 4 – Disconnecting the Old Fan

Disconnect the power cable to the motherboard fan which may be attached to the power supply or the motherboard. Use the screwdriver to remove the screws securing the fan to the computer.

 Step 5 – Installing the New Fan

Use the screws provided with the new motherboard fan to secure the component. Reconnect the power supply cables to the motherboard fan. Reconnect the computer to the electrical outlet and turn the power on. Do so carefully so as not to touch anything inside the case and seriously injure yourself.

Step 6 - Removing the Old Heat Sink Fan Combos

Many motherboard fans are built into a heat sink. Replacement of these fans will require a heat sink fan combo. Use the screwdriver to loosen the screws securing the combo to the computer. Gently pry the chipset from any thermal paste. Remove excess thermal paste by applying a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a Q-tip and rubbing it away.

Step 7 – Connecting the New Heat Sink Fan Combo

Peel the film from the thermal pad of the new Heat Sink Fan Combo. Carefully align the Combo on the chipset, .

Step 8 – Reassembling the Computer

Once the fan or the Heat Sink Fan Combo starts working, carefully replace the computer.