The issue of a CPU water cooler fan not spinning can be caused by various factors, including incorrect fan header settings, power supply issues, or a faulty fan. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the necessary steps to troubleshoot and resolve this problem, ensuring your CPU water cooler functions optimally.
Checking the Fan Header Settings
One of the most common causes of a CPU water cooler fan not spinning is an incorrect fan header setting in the BIOS/UEFI. To address this, follow these steps:
- Enter the BIOS/UEFI by pressing the appropriate key during system boot (usually F2, Del, or F12).
- Navigate to the “Fan Configuration” or “Hardware Monitor” section.
- Ensure that the CPU fan header is set to “PWM” mode, which allows for dynamic fan speed control.
- If the setting is incorrect, change it to “PWM” and save the changes.
- If the issue persists, try installing ASUS’ Armoury Crate software, as suggested in the Linus Tech Tips forum post, to further control the fan speed.
Verifying the Fan Connections
Ensure that the CPU water cooler fan is properly connected to the corresponding fan header on the motherboard. Check the following:
- Inspect the fan connector for any damage or bent pins.
- Firmly insert the fan connector into the motherboard header, ensuring a secure connection.
- If the fan is connected via a splitter or extension cable, try plugging it directly into the motherboard header.
- Ensure that the fan cable is not obstructed or pinched, which could prevent the fan from spinning.
Evaluating the Power Supply
An insufficient or faulty power supply can also contribute to a CPU water cooler fan not spinning. Perform the following checks:
- Verify that the power supply is providing enough wattage to power the entire system, including the CPU water cooler.
- Check the power cables connecting the power supply to the motherboard and other components for any damage or loose connections.
- If possible, try a different power supply to see if the issue is resolved.
Trying Alternative Fan Headers
If the fan is not spinning on the primary CPU fan header, try plugging it into a different fan header on the motherboard. This can help determine if the issue is specific to the original header or a more widespread problem.
- Locate other fan headers on the motherboard, such as case fan headers or additional CPU fan headers.
- Carefully disconnect the fan from the original header and plug it into the new one.
- Observe if the fan starts spinning, which would indicate a problem with the original header.
Adjusting the Fan Curve/Settings
The fan curve or settings in the BIOS/UEFI can also affect the CPU water cooler fan’s operation. Ensure that the fan is set to run at the appropriate speed:
- Enter the BIOS/UEFI and navigate to the “Fan Configuration” or “Hardware Monitor” section.
- Locate the settings for the CPU fan and ensure that the fan curve is set to a suitable profile or that the fan speed is not set to a low value.
- Adjust the fan curve or speed settings as needed to ensure the fan is running at the desired speed.
Replacing the CPU Water Cooler Fan
If the above troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, the CPU water cooler fan may be faulty and require replacement. Consider the following:
- Verify the fan’s technical specifications, such as size (120mm or 140mm), connector type (4-pin PWM), speed range (500-1500 RPM), airflow (40-100 CFM), and static pressure (0.5-3.0 mmH2O).
- Purchase a compatible replacement fan that matches the original specifications.
- Carefully remove the old fan and install the new one, ensuring a secure connection to the motherboard header.
By following these comprehensive steps, you should be able to effectively troubleshoot and resolve the issue of a CPU water cooler fan not spinning. Remember to always exercise caution when working with computer hardware and refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance.
References:
– Radiator fans not spinning at all – Cooling – Linus Tech Tips Forum
– AIO pump fans not spinning | Tom’s Hardware Forum
– CPU Fan not spinning – AMD Community
– CPU cooler fans not spinning | [H]ard|Forum
– AIO Liquid Cooler Fan Not Spinning : r/buildapc – Reddit