How to Test Your CPU Cooling Fans

Newer computer processors are becoming more powerful and are generating more and more heat. So you must have adequate cooling in order to maintain the safety and performance of your system. Due to the importance of CPU cooling to your computer’s longevity and performance, a fully functional fan is recommended. You can make sure your fan is performing up to par according to this article. We will tell you some easy ways to check your CPU fan.

                    

Things You Need

Web browser

CPU fan

Processor

Instructions

Physically checking your CPU fan

1. First you need to take off your computer's case so you can see the CPU fan.

2. Find out your motherboard’s instruction booklet and ensure your fan is plugged in to a power lead adequate for its needs.

3. Turn on your computer to see whether your fan is spinning. If your fan is not spinning, then turn your computer off immediately.

4. Unplug your processor's fan and plug it into another power lead. Find alternative power leads with your motherboard’s instruction book. Each motherboard is a little different, but they will generally be located immediately to the right of the processor.

5. Now, turn on your computer and confirm your fan is spinning.

Testing your fan’s functionality

1. Turn on your computer with the side of your case still removed.

2. Download a program named “Prime95 stress test.” This program will ensure your processor is working at 100% capacity.

3. Watch carefully at your fan when you run the stress test. If it begins to spin faster after the stress test has started, that means your fan is functioning properly.