If the fan is not working then the computer will automatically shut down because it is overheating. Using a computer without a fan can permanently damage the components and soon it will not turn on at all. Most people who use computers are not computer technicians. Many people like myself use the computers for business, education, and entertainment. When something goes wrong with the computer, people either send it to a computer technician, or in extreme cases, trash the current computer that is not working and buy a new one. Either way, fixing the problem is expensive.
One of the cheapest ways is to fix the problem yourself. Fixing a computer yourself is scary, especially if you don't know how. Most of the components that make up the computer are actually practical to fix because the components are easy to install. For example: the fan in a typical computer desktop is easy to plug-in. Aside from viruses and physical accidents, overheating due to faulty or broken fans is also a major problem in computer operations.
It is very frustrating when you are doing something very important on your computer and it fails because it overheated. If you are going to fix or replace the CPU fan yourself it would be best if you can find the plans or instructions to help guide you. You can either go online or go to the library and look for the company that built your computer. Generally most computer desktops are the same, but depending on the brand or type, some fans are in different parts of the computer. The CPU fan could be next to the mother board, but in most cases, it is usually located by the power supply. The fan and the power supply are usually in the rear of the computer desktop. Here are a few simple steps in replacing a fan for a typical computer desktop.
1) Before you even start replacing the CPU fan, you must make sure that you have the right fan. Not all fans fit different computer desktops. Each computer company has their own CPU fans for their computers. Always check with a certified store clerk or computer technician to make sure that the fan you are buying is the one for your computer desktop. You can start replacing the fan on your computer desktop once you have the right one.
2) Start by taking off the computer casing. The casing is either screwed or snapped down by a lever. Most casings are held in place by screws, so you will need a screw driver. If the casing has screws, remove the screws, take off the casing and place it on the side. Keep the screws close to the casing.
3) Look for the CPU fan, it is most likely mounted by a few screws next to the mother board and/or the power supply. You must take the screws off to replace the old fan. Most fans are simple plug-in. To remove the old CPU fan, unplug it and then plug-in the new fan. (If you bought a new fan from the computer store, chances are it will come with instructions on how to replace the fan.)
4) Once you have replaced the CPU fan, remount it. Don't put the computer casing on yet you need to check and see if the fan works. Plug in the computer and turn it on. After you have checked if the fan works shut it off and put the casing back on and screw it back in place. That's it! If you are not sure about changing the CPU fan by yourself, you can always get help online through computer or technical forums. You can also check through search engines. There are also technical chat rooms online that can help guide you.