Processors Toolkit

Fix noisy computer fans with a drop of oil

Greg Shultz Tech Republic

Published: 03 Jun 2003 11:01 BST

When a user complains to you that his or her computer is making a loud whirring noise, there are really only two types of components that can make that type of noise: disk drives and cooling fans. A problem with either type of component could spell disaster.

But in most cases, you'll discover that the noise is being generated by one of the cooling fans inside the computer. Most computers have three cooling fans, one inside the power supply, one on the case itself, and one on the CPU. Of course, each of these cooling fans is designed to keep the whole system as cool as possible by generating a constant airflow inside the case that will bring cool air in while moving the hot air out. If any of these cooling fans fails, the system could overheat and cause data loss. So your first inclination might be to just replace the noisy fan. While doing so is a fairly easy operation, it's not always necessary. In many cases, the fan, like the Tin Man from the Wizard of Oz, needs only a drop of oil.

Choosing your oil
As you read the introduction to this article, the first question on your mind was probably, "What kind of oil should you use?" And, that's actually a very good question, because using the wrong kind of oil can have adverse effects.

To begin with, let me say: You shouldn't use WD-40 on a computer fan! Many folks use WD-40 to lubricate all kinds of squeaky or noisy mechanical components around the home and office. In fact, WD-40 is such a great multi-purpose problem solver that you might assume that you can quiet a noisy computer fan with a quick spray of WD-40. However, that's not the case.

The reason that you shouldn't use WD-40 on a computer fan is that while it is indeed a lubricant it's mainly designed as a cleaner/degreaser, that loosens stuck parts, prevents corrosion, and displaces water-obviously not the types of problems found in computer cooling fans. Furthermore, it's a light lubricant that is better for lubricating something like a hinge that only moves occasionally rather than a component that moves continuously and at high speeds such as a computer fan.

That said; what type of oil should you use? Well almost any lightweight mechanical oil, such as 3-in-1 household oil, will do just fine.

I prefer to use sewing machine oil, because, in addition to being a lightweight oil, it has excellent viscosity, holds up well at high temperatures, and is specifically designed to lubricate moving parts that operate at high speeds. You can pick up a tube of sewing machine oil at almost any sewing machine dealer or even at a fabric store for about £2 to £3.