How to Fix GPU Fans Not Spinning Issue – 9 Easy Solutions

Learn how to fix your GPU fans not spinning issue, which includes checking temps, power connections, drivers, and more in order to achieve optimal performance.

How to Fix GPU Fans Not Spinning Issue

If you are facing the issue of GPU fans not spinning, you are not alone. Many PC users see this as a problem at times, particularly at boot-up. Also, GPU fans that do not spin are not always a large issue. Sometimes, the reason for the fan’s lack of spin is normal; sometimes, it is a hardware or software problem.

Read More: What is the Average GPU Temp While Gaming

Are GPU Fans Not Spinning Normal Issue?

Before you troubleshoot, report that your GPU fans aren’t spinning. That is a normal thing. Today’s graphics cards from companies like NVIDIA and AMD have a feature which is zero RPM. What this does is it keeps the fans off at low GPU temperature.

If your GPU fans aren’t running while you are on the web or watching videos, that may just mean your system is at a sufficient temperature and doesn’t need active cooling.

Read More: Difference Between DX12 vs Vulkan

1. Check GPU Temperature First

The first step to take when GPU fans aren’t spinning is to check the temperature. If you have GPU fans that have stopped spinning but the temperature is below 50°C, that is normal. But should temperatures go past 70°C and the fan issue persists, action is required.

You can use GPU monitoring software to track temperature. Overheating in combination with non-spinning fans is a sure sign.

Read More: How to Fix Driver Power State Failure in Windows 11

2. Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, GPU fans not spinning is due to a temporary system glitch. A reboot of your PC may fix hardware communication.

• Turn off your Computer Completely.
• Wait a Few Minutes.
• Turn it back on.

In most cases, the GPU fan issue is resolved after a restart.

Read More: How to Use FreeSync with NVIDIA For Smooth Gaming

3. Check Power Connections

Loose or improper power connections are a cause of GPU fans that do not spin. Power off your PC and unplug it from the power source. Open the case and make sure:

• PCIe power connections are connected properly.
• The GPU is a proper fit in the PCIe slot.

Improper installation causes issues with the GPU fans not spinning.

Read More: How to Optimize Windows 11 for Gaming

4. Update or install Graphics Drivers

Outdated and corrupted drivers may cause GPU fans to stop spinning. Go to the official website, NVIDIA or AMD, to get the latest drivers.

Perform a clean install to remove old driver files. Many users see that the issue of GPU fans not spinning is resolved after updating drivers.

Read More: How to Find Out What Motherboard I Have Windows 10

5. Check Fan Curve Settings

Custom fan profiles also play a role in GPU fans, which may cause them not spin at high load. If you’ve changed the fan curves in the GPU software or BIOS, put them back to stock settings.

Improper fan curve setup may cause the fans to not turn on at the proper temperature, which in turn may cause the GPU fans stop during games.

6. Check for Physical Damage or Dust

Dust accumulation and physical wear out can cause GPU fans to stop spinning. Check for:

• Dust blocking fan blades
• Broken fan blades
• Loose internal fan connectors

Carefully clean out your GPU with compressed air. Also, at time a clean out will fix the issue of GPU fans not spinning.

7. Test Under Heavy Load

To see if your GPU fans are indeed not spinning properly, run a heavy game or a benchmark tool. Pay close attention to the temperature.

If your system’s temperature is rising fast and the GPU fans aren’t turning on, the fan motor may be out. At that point, hardware repair will be required.

8. Check the Power Supply Unit (PSU)

A weak or failing power supply is a cause for the GPU fans not spinning. Make sure your PSU has sufficient wattage for your graphics card. Poor power delivery may put the fans out.

9. Consider Repair or Replacement

If the above solutions do not work for your GPU fans that aren’t spinning, your GPU fans may be defective. If your graphics card is still under warranty, take up the issue with the manufacturer for support or replacement.

Conclusion

In most cases, what you see of GPU fans not spinning is normal; we have zero RPM technology. But should you see the fans not spinning at high temperatures or during gaming, that may be a sign of a power, driver, or hardware issue. By checking out the temperature, connections, drivers, and fan settings, you can very easily identify what the issue is and go about fixing it. By taking care of these issues as soon as they come up, you will keep your GPU at its best performance and cool.