Maintaining PC Fans - All You Need to Know

  • Thread starter Thread starter pixel01
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    pc
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the maintenance of PC fans, specifically addressing whether it is advisable to oil them and the implications of doing so. Participants explore the necessity of oiling fans, potential risks, and alternatives such as replacement.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the need to oil PC fans and suitable oils for this purpose.
  • Another participant asserts that most PC fans use sealed bearings and cannot be oiled, suggesting that noisy fans indicate they should be replaced instead.
  • A different viewpoint warns against oiling fans, citing concerns about oil spraying and attracting dust.
  • One participant emphasizes the importance of replacing CPU fans before they fail, noting that a locked-up fan could damage the processor.
  • Conversely, another participant argues that oiling fans can be beneficial if done correctly, referencing a tutorial and suggesting it may enhance longevity and efficiency.
  • A similar perspective is reiterated, highlighting the low cost of replacement fans and the potential hassle of oiling.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the practice of oiling fans, with some advocating for it under certain conditions, while others strongly advise against it. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to fan maintenance.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the effectiveness or safety of oiling fans, and there are varying assumptions about the types of fans and their maintenance needs.

pixel01
Messages
688
Reaction score
1
Hi all,

I just opened my desk PC case for cleaning. There are fans, one in the power supply and one over the CPU. Do I need to oil the fans and what kinds of oils are suitable for this purpose?
Thanks
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
The fans in your computer almost assuredly use sealed bearings and cannot be oiled. If a fan is making noise, it's because the bearings are shot, and the entire thing needs to be replaced. They're cheap.

- Warren
 
Don't oil them, chances are you'll spray oil everywhere, dust will stick to it, and you'll have no end of grief.
 
It's a good idea to replace the cpu fan before it is worn out. What could happen if the bearing is worn out, espessially if it it a low speed fan, is that the destroyed bearing will lock up the fan, so that the processor will be destroyed.
 
I don't see the problem with oiling the fans if you know what you are doing. Here is a good tutorial:
http://www.dansdata.com/fanmaint.htm
Oiling your old fans increases the chance they will last longer, and might actually improve efficiency/lower noise too.
 
nobb123 said:
I don't see the problem with oiling the fans if you know what you are doing. Here is a good tutorial:
http://www.dansdata.com/fanmaint.htm
Oiling your old fans increases the chance they will last longer, and might actually improve efficiency/lower noise too.

Case fans are as cheap as $2-$3 now. It would be considerably less stressful just to buy a fan and put it in. Also you don't have to worry about spilling oil everywhere.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
14K
Replies
2
Views
2K