How to fix the CPU fan speed error
Every computer, desktop or laptop, has at least one built-in fan. The fan keeps the computer cool and it is pre-configured to run automatically when the system heats up. There is a temperature threshold which, when crossed, will trigger the fan.
CPU fan speed error
The CPU fans turn on automatically when you boot a system. The temperature settings don’t apply until you boot to the desktop. While your system is on the bootloader or on the BIOS screen, the fan will keep running to keep the system cool. If you boot to BIOS or you’re on the bootloader and you see a CPU fan speed error, try the fixes below.
1. Change fan speed from BIOS
The fan speed isn’t always directly accessible but in some cases, you can change it from BIOS.
- Boot the system to BIOS.
- Look for the hardware tab or anything related to hardware configuration.
- Change the fan speed or the temperature that triggers it.
- Save the change.
2. Change fan speed on Windows 10
You can try changing the fan speed from Windows 10 if you do not have the option to do so in BIOS.
- Download and install an app called HWiNFO.
- Run the app.
- Click the fan icon at the bottom.
- In the window that opens, click Set manual next to a fan.
- Set a temperature to trigger the fan.
- Set its minimum and maximum speed.
- Apply the change.
- Restart the system.
Note: for a more detailed guide, check out our post on how to change the fan speed on Windows 10.
3. Check hardware
The fan is hardware and like any other hardware, it can be damaged. If you know your way around the chassis of a laptop or desktop, you can open it up and check if there is something wrong e.g. a loose wire.
You should also consider having it looked at by a professional. There may be a problem with the temperature sensor. The temperature sensor is what checks the temperature of a system and triggers the fan to run. If it is damaged, the fan may run when it doesn’t need to or it may not run when it should.
Conclusion
The fan doesn’t run games, output sound, or process tasks but it keeps the system’s temperature stable, and prevents hardware damage. If you’re getting a fan error, you should take it seriously and make sure it’s fixed. Your computer may shut down if it overheats but that check may not work on all systems, and it can fail if the temperature sensor is damaged.
