HP Notebook PCs - Fan Is Noisy and Spins Constantly (Windows)

This document is for HP Notebook PCs.

When a computer fan spins loudly for a long period of time, there might be an issue with a fan, or the computer might be overheating. Adjust the power settings, clean the fan vents, check for suspicious processes, and then update the BIOS to help reduce the internal temperature.

note:

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

On select HP notebook computers, you can use the HP Command Center app to control the thermal profile of the computer and reduce the noise generated by the cooling fan.

note:

You might need to install the HP Command Center app from the Microsoft Store.

1. In Windows, search for and open HP Command Center.
2. On the Thermal Profile tab, select the quiet mode.
   

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 remove the heat.

1. Turn off the computer.
2. Remove any objects near the computer.
3. Use a vacuum to remove the dust from the vents underneath and on the sides of the computer.
   
4. Turn the computer on, and then place it on a hard, level surface, such as a desk or table.

     caution:

   Placing the computer on a cloth surface, such as your lap, a bed, or a couch cushion, can restrict or completely block the airflow. Prolonged air restriction causes overheating and potential damage. Go to Reducing Heat Inside the Laptop to Prevent Overheating for more information.

If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

The computer BIOS might be out-of-date.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

  caution:

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

If the BIOS is up-to-date or the issue persists, continue to the next step.

The graphics driver might be out-of-date. Use HP Support Assistant or the HP Support website to find and install updates for your computer.

note:

HP does not recommend installing drivers from third-party websites, as this can create additional problems. If you choose to install a non-HP driver, make sure to create a Windows System Restore before starting the update. Go to Using Microsoft System Restore (Windows 10, 8) or Using Microsoft System Restore (Windows 7) for more information.

1. Make sure that your computer is connected to the internet.
2. Use either the HP Support Assistant or the HP Support website to find the latest graphic driver for your computer.
   • In Windows, search for and open HP Support Assistant, or click the app icon in the taskbar. If the app is not installed on your computer, download the latest version from the HP Support Assistant website.
   • Go to the HP Customer Support - Software and Driver Downloads page on the HP website.

If the driver is up-to-date or the issue persists, continue to the next step.

When the CPU is overburdened by multiple processes, such corrupt software or malware, 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 your computer is connected to the internet.
2. Press Ctrl + Alt + Delete and then select Start Task Manager or Task Manager.
   
3. Click More details, if necessary.
   
4. Click the Processes tab, and then click the CPU column header to sort the processes by CPU load.
   
5. Use the internet to research and confirm any suspicious processes that display in the list.
6. Select the suspicious process, and then click End task.

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

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

1. Turn on the computer.
2. In Windows, click the battery icon on the taskbar, and then click and drag the slider to the appropriate selection between the Best battery life setting and the Best performance setting.
   

If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

The computer works harder and generates more heat when multiple applications are open at the same time 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.

Update your Windows 10 computer using Windows Update.

1. In Windows, search for and open Check for updates.
   If there are any available updates, they begin installing automatically.
2. After the updates install, restart your computer when prompted.

If all preceding steps did not resolve the issue, contact HP Customer Support for warranty and service options.