Why Are My Graphics Card Fans Not Spinning? GPU Care Guide 

Why are my graphics card fans not spinning? This is a common question in the PC gaming community, and most resources on the internet don’t have a direct answer. 

Graphics cards process a lot of data and need fans to keep their temperatures low. The graphics card can overheat if the fans don’t work, reducing its performance and longevity. 

You, therefore, need to figure out the cause of the problem and solve it as fast as possible. Let us get into the details and explore more on the matter;

Why Are My Graphics Card Fans Not Spinning?

Graphics card fans are crucial for cooling and performance, so you must figure out any issues that might keep the fans from working. 

Here are some causes of the malfunctioning fan in GPUs to help make your troubleshooting process easier; 

1. Fanless or passive cooling. Some graphics cards are without active cooling fans. These cards often use massive heatsinks or other passive cooling methods. It’s usual for your graphics card’s fans not to spin if it falls into this category.
2. Temperature threshold. Graphics cards frequently have temperature thresholds built in that decide when the fans should begin spinning. The fans might not need to spin if your GPU runs cool enough. They should, however, activate when the temperature increases above a particular threshold during heavy usage.
3. Driver or software issue. It is conceivable that the fans are not spinning due to a software issue. Check that you have the most recent graphics card drivers installed, then look through the manufacturer’s software for any fan control settings that have been changed or deactivated.
4. Fan failure. The fans on your graphics card may have malfunctioned or become unplugged in some situations. If the fans were previously spinning and then suddenly stopped, it’s worth scrutinizing the card for visual evidence of damage or weak connections.
5. BIOS configuration. Some graphics cards include fan control options in the system BIOS. If the fans aren’t spinning, check the BIOS settings to ensure they’re set to an appropriate mode, such as “Auto” or “Enabled.”

When Should My GPU Fans Start Spinning?

Most GPU fans don’t spin by default; they will start running a few minutes or hours after you use them, depending on your actions. So when should the GPU fans start running to ensure your system is safe? Let’s find out;  

1. When under stress. The GPU generates more heat when operating graphically intense applications such as games, 3D rendering software, or other GPU-heavy tasks. The fans should begin spinning automatically to boost airflow and disperse heat to keep temperatures within acceptable levels.
2. The temperature limit. Most current graphics cards include temperature sensors that monitor the temperature of the GPU.  Manufacturers specify a temperature threshold, often between 60 and 70 degrees Celsius (140 and 158 degrees Fahrenheit), at which the fans should activate. When the GPU temperature exceeds this limit, the fans start spinning to cool the graphics card.
3. It’s worth noting that certain graphics cards support semi-passive or zero RPM modes. When the GPU is under typical or light loads and the temperatures are within acceptable norms, the fans remain still or spin at extremely low speeds. The fans begin to spin only when the GPU temperature increases or when the GPU is subjected to a heavy load.

How Can I Fix My Graphics Card When The Fans Are Not Spinning?

You need to find a quick solution to a GPU’s cooling system, especially if you are a heavy-duty gamer. 

Poor heat regulation is a death sentence for your GPU’s performance. There are several potential fixes for issues with the fan, and here are some of the most effective;

1. Inspect the fan connections. Check that the fans are connected to the graphics card properly. The fans can become loose or disconnected owing to vibrations or movement. Scrutinize the connections and, if necessary, reseat the fans.
2. Remove the fans and heatsink. Dust accumulation can obstruct fan movement and lead to overheating. Clean your graphics card’s fans and heatsink with compressed air or a soft brush. Make sure the computer is turned off and removed from the power source.
3. Install the most recent graphics card drivers. Download the most current drivers for your graphics card model from the manufacturer’s website. Restart your computer after installing the new drivers. Outdated drivers can occasionally create fan control issues.
4. Examine the fan control settings. Some graphics card software allows you to regulate the fan speed manually. Check the fan settings in the manufacturer’s control panel or utility program. Check that the fans are in the proper setting, such as “Auto” or “Enabled.”
5. Use third-party software to change the fan speed. If the manufacturer’s software does not provide enough fan control choices, you can manually modify the fan speed with third-party software such as MSI Afterburner or EVGA Precision X. These apps provide more sophisticated fan control features.
6. Clear the BIOS settings. Enter your computer’s BIOS or UEFI settings and look for any fan control options. If you previously made modifications, consider resetting the BIOS settings to default. For details on how to reset the BIOS, consult your motherboard or computer handbook.
7. Keep an eye on the temperature. While running demanding apps or games, use tools such as HWMonitor or GPU-Z to monitor the temperature of your graphics card. 

If the temperature rises over safe levels yet the fans still do not spin, there could be a hardware problem. In such instances, contacting customer service or a professional technician is best.

Tips and Tricks to Make My Graphics Card Last Longer

PCs have a lot of hidden features and capabilities, and the same applies to Graphics cards. You need all the tips to help you use your GPU well and prevent damage. Here are some tips that work well for all Graphics card brands to increase longevity; 

1. Keep the card as clean as possible. Dust buildup on the heatsink and fans can obstruct airflow and cause overheating. Clean your graphics card regularly with compressed air or a soft brush. Before cleaning, turn off your computer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Maintain proper ventilation. To prevent heat buildup, make sure your computer casing has adequate airflow. Place your graphics card in a slot with enough space between nearby components. Check that the case fans are working correctly and that there are no obstacles to ventilation so that cool air passes through the system.
3. Stay away from harsh temperatures. Excessive heat or cold might be harmful to your graphics card. Maintain a well-ventilated environment for your computer and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or significant temperature variations. Ensure the room is not damp since the moisture could condense on the graphics card and cause a short circuit.
4. Install the most recent graphics card drivers. Regularly update your graphics card drivers for speed gains, bug fixes, and compatibility upgrades. To download and install the most recent drivers, visit the manufacturer’s website or use their program. Most manufacturers will specify the line and specs for each Graphics card along with the necessary updates.
5. Keep an eye on the temperature. Monitor the temperature of your graphics card using software such as HWMonitor or GPU-Z. High temperatures can cause performance throttling and damage. Consider boosting cooling or altering fan settings if you experience extremely high temps.
6. Only overclock when necessary. Overclocking your graphics card might improve performance and increase power consumption and heat generation. If you decide to overclock, proceed cautiously, monitoring temperatures and ensuring stability. Keep in mind that overclocking can void warranties.
7. Make use of surge protection. Connect your computer and graphics card to a surge protector to safeguard your gear from power surges or electrical fluctuations.
8. Keep drivers and software up to date. Keep your operating system and other essential applications up to date in addition to your graphics card drivers. Security patches, bug fixes, and performance enhancements are frequently included in updates.
9. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. For maintenance suggestions and guidelines, consult your graphics card’s handbook or the manufacturer’s website. Different models may have further concerns, such as cleaning procedures or fan control settings.
10. Seek professional assistance as necessary. If you have chronic or suspect hardware problems with your graphics card, contact the manufacturer’s customer service or get help from a competent computer hardware professional.

Conclusion

You can take better care of your graphics card now that you understand why the graphics card fans are not spinning. 

These fans are pivotal for properly operating a graphics card, and you must take every measure to ensure they are in optimal condition and performance. 

Clean the GPU, ensure proper aeration, and update all system drivers to ensure the fan has an appropriate running platform. 

You can use third-party applications to manage the temperature more meticulously to increase your graphics card’s longevity.