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HP All-in-One PCs - Fan is noisy and spins constantly (Windows 11, Windows 10)

When a computer fan spins loudly for a long period of time, there might be an issue with the fan, or the computer might be overheating. You can use the following solutions to try to resolve the issue.

Note:

It is normal for the fans to spin loudly for five to twenty seconds when you turn on the computer.

Adjust the computer power settings

Adjust the power settings to decrease power consumption, which can help the fans maintain an optimal internal temperature up to 30°C (86°F).

Clean the air vents

Dust and debris can accumulate in and around the air vents over time, obstructing the airflow and causing the fans to work harder than normal to cool the computer.

  1. Turn off the computer.

  2. Remove any objects near the computer.

  3. Use a vacuum to clean the vents at the back and sides of the computer.

    Note:

    The following image is an example of where your computer vents might be located.

    Clean the air vents
  4. Turn the computer on.

    If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

Increase efficiency to reduce heat

The computer works harder and generates more heat when multiple applications are open simultaneously, or while playing graphically intense video games.

Use the following tips to improve computer efficiency.

  • Change which applications run when Windows starts by using the Startup tab in Task Manager.

  • Close applications when you are done using them.

  • Close the internet browser when you are not using it.

  • Lower the game resolution and decrease the graphics settings if the computer becomes warmer than usual while playing.

If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

Using Task Manager to identify corrupt processes and reduce heat

When multiple processes, such as corrupt software or malware, overburden the CPU, the fans run continuously to remove the excess heat. Open Windows Task Manager to identify these processes, and then close them.

Note:

An unnecessary or corrupt process can consume anywhere between 1% to 100% of the CPU. Even a low but constant 3% to 4% load can cause the fans to spin faster.

  1. Make sure that your computer is connected to the internet.

  2. Press ctrl + alt + delete, and then select Start Task Manager or Task Manager.

    Selecting Task Manager in Windows
  3. Click More details, if necessary.

    Selecting more details
  4. Click the Processes tab, and then click the CPU column header to sort the processes by CPU load.

    Clicking the CPU column header
  5. Use the internet to research and confirm any suspicious processes that are displayed in the list.

  6. Select each suspicious process, and then click End task.

If you did not find any suspicious processes or the issue persists, continue to the next step.

Update the graphics driver

The graphics driver might be out-of-date. Use Windows Update to find and install updates for your computer.

Note:

HP does not recommend installing drivers from third-party websites, because those drivers can create additional problems. If you choose to install a third-party driver, make sure that you create a Windows System Restore point before starting the update. Go to HP PCs - Using Microsoft System Restore.

  1. Make sure that the computer is connected to an active internet connection.

    Note:

    On a metered internet connection, such as a cellular network, you might need to download updates manually.

  2. In Windows, search for and open Windows Update settings.

  3. Click Check for updates. Any available updates install automatically.

  4. After the updates install, restart your computer, if necessary. For more information, see HP PCs - Updating drivers using Windows update (Windows 11, 10).

    If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

Update the BIOS

The computer BIOS might be out-of-date. Check for a BIOS update from HP.

CAUTION:

Make sure that you install the BIOS update for your specific computer model. Installing the wrong update can result in losing all computer functionality.

  1. Go to HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads, and then navigate to the product page for your computer.

  2. Fine BIOS in the list.

If updating the BIOS did not resolve the audio issue, continue to the next step.

Contact HP Customer Support

Contact HP Customer Support for further assistance if the issue persists.

  1. Enter your product serial number to view warranty status and to change your location, if necessary.

  2. Select a support option. Support options vary by country/region.