I seem to get an odd noise when I start my computer after its been off for a while (cold boot.)

I've checked all fans exept the Video card fan. I think this is the problem but the odd thing is it only happens for 5-10 seconds and then tho noaise is gone.

Should I get the fan replaced? Or might it be something else

Hello mempf,

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How are you "checking" the other fans?? Is the Video Card fan plugged into a header on the card?? If so, you might try unplugging the fan to see if the noise goes away during the cold boot up...

I would seek to get the fan replaced, whichever one it is, as a noisy fan is extremely annoying. And, the sound could be the precursor to its ultimate demise...usually, happening at a very inopportune time! :(

I testing the otehres by pulling the power to the fans when the nosie started and I even tested the cpu fan with way. NOTE:I had my other hand at the power switch on the back of the power supply.

So I phoned up Samtack (part of XFX "maker of my video card") and they are going to send a replacment fan for me. YAY!

great but you should change your processor cooler and psu fan too, because as I noticed most of these noises goes from cpu's fans and psu's fans when there too many dusts on them or when a bearing of cooler becames demage from long time working.

and you need too use some oil for all your computer's fans, because bearings and axis of cooler must be oily and not dry. Remember this

Well I just built the computer last week so I think the other fans are working ok

Also why would the noise only happen for that short amount of time at the start of a cold boot and only a cold boot

you should know that most of the new fans are completly dry. So just try to inject some oil, but be careful. Did you check your psu's cooler or coolers and what is your hard disk model. You need to check it too.

Could it really be my hard drive? I dont think so the noise does not seem to be coming from that area of my case. Also How would I oil my fans? How do I get the the bearing?

And its not the power supply I tried a differant power supply and it still made the noise

there are condensators on the north bridge of mobo, near keybord, mouse ports and processor. So check them or they aren't too hot aand make sure or that noise doesn't go from these condensators.

You can oil a computer fan but it is not always straight forward. It is best if you remove the noisy fan from the computer first because you need to get to the end of the fan shaft.

This may involve removing an end plug and any Company logo or identifying stickers on the end of the shaft. Apply a very small amount of light machine oil to the end of the shaft - then reassemble.

I don't subscribe to this type of fix myself, although I know it can be done. Cooling fans are oiled and sealed during manufacture, and the fact that one has lost oil means that the seal has broken. This has probably allowed dust to enter into the shaft area and started to erode the shaft. If you oil it may only be a temporary solution.

In addition some fans have mental tags you will need to bend out of the way - risky even for a professional. Fans are not that expensive to make it worthwhile risking gouging the mobo or video card with screwdrivers etc..

Where there is a warranty try for a replacement and if not, it is a simple and more permanent job to replace the fan.


Thanks;)

It is my understanding also, that the fans have sealed bearings. Your best bet is to simply replace an offending fan.

I would stay away from the business of trying to oil the fans. ;)