Computer component problems can be categorized into 2 different parts; hardware and software issues. Among the hardware problems, the GPU fan spinning problem is a common one.
Nowadays, the RTX 3000 series GPUs can also face this issue, which gets very frustrating.
So, what’s causing the RTX 3000 series fan spinning problem?
Dirt and grease-infested RTX 3000 series GPU fans can clog up and stop spinning. Another reason why the GPU fans won’t spin can be due to software glitches. Finally, improper setup of the power connectors of the GPU can be a reason for this issue.
That just covers the very basic information about the topic. To learn how to troubleshoot these problems, stick with us till the end.
Let’s begin.
RTX 3000 Fan Spinning Problem: 3 Reasons and Troubleshoots
A number of reasons can be pointed out for the fans not spinning properly in RTX 3000 series. I have highlighted some of the most obvious reasons behind the fan problem.
Along with the problems, I’ve included the RTX 3000 series fan spinning problem solution for your convenience. Have a look below!
Reason 1: Dirty Fans
As you might have guessed, having dirty GPU fans can cause it not to work. This is one of the common mistakes GPU owners can do; not cleaning the GPU fans.
Like other PC components, GPU fans have to be cleaned as well. This goes for the CPU fans, motherboards, RAM, etc. Additionally, the external components have to be cleaned order to be maintained.
For instance, if you have a mechanical keyboard, clean the PBT keycaps or ABS keycaps regularly.
Since the GPU fans are small, you may think cleaning the fans are a hassle. Don’t worry, I’ll help you. I’ve provided simple steps to clean the GPU fans below. Have a look.
Troubleshoot: Clean the GPU Fans
Here are the steps to cleaning GPU fans at home-
- Firstly, get an electric air duster. The electric air duster can push out all the dust buildup.
Blow the compressed air in short bursts inside the GPU fans. Hold the duster at least 3-4 inches away from the fans. Blowing the air too close can damage the GPU components; be cautious.
It’s very important to get the right air duster for such a task. Not every electrical air duster is safe for use on electrical appliances. And a sensitive component like GPU should only be cleaned using a safe air duster.
And we get it, it’s not easy to distinguish such specific air dusters for cleaning GPUs. That’s why we recommended some of our top picks for your convenience. Here, have a look:
| Product | Features | Price |
| KOONIE Cordless Air Duster | 41000 RPM powerful motorElectric cordless air duster3-hour working life on full charge | Check Price |
| ATEngeus Compressed Air Duster | Detachable nozzleMultiple charging methods100w rated power | Check Price |
| REESIBI Cordless Electric Air Duster | 90000 RPM motor3-speed adjustmentEnergy-efficient and eco-friendly | Check Price |
These electric compressed air dusters successfully get rid of the dust inside the GPU. Thanks to their massive RMP motors, you won’t have to worry about any unattended dust.
You can also use compressed air cans as cheaper alternatives. However, we don’t recommend doing so as they run a slight risk of damaging your GPU.
- Secondly, use cotton buds to reach the stubborn areas of the fan. The propellers have 2 sides, it’s important to clean the backside.
Compressed air can clear the front side, use the cotton buds and reach all the corners. Use multiple cotton buds to properly clean the area.
- Finally, use a microfiber cloth to clean the fans. It’s important to understand that, only clearing the dust won’t do.
Dust infused with liquid substances like water and oil may produce grease. Put some rubbing alcohol on the microfiber cloth and rub the propellers.
Similar to the 2nd step, clean both sides of the fans. Properly dry the rubbing alcohol before plugging in the GPU on the motherboard.
Reason 2: Software Glitches
Since GPUs are hardware, many people think that software doesn’t have any effect on them. Well, this is actually a misconception among the PC user community!
Some software glitches stay with the software. Yet, it may have negative effects on the hardware. If your GPU fan spins then stops repeatedly, it might be caused by malfunctioning software features.
You can follow some effortless steps to get rid of this problem. I’ve mentioned the steps below, give it a read.
Troubleshoot: Update GPU Drivers
Follow the steps below-
- To start off, restart your PC. As you may know, restarting a PC can cure problems 80% of the time. It’s a free remedy for everyone!
If the restarting fixes the GPU fans, you’re good to go. If it doesn’t fix it, proceed to the next step.
- After the PC restarts, apply a stress test on the GPU. The stress test forces the GPU fans to spin, which can throw them back to functionality.
You can apply stress tests to a PC in many ways. Playing graphics-hungry games, rendering 3D models, etc can be relied on for stress.
Alternatively, you can benchmark tools on your PC, that have built-in stress test options. Don’t worry about stressing the PC, it won’t damage it in any way.
- Finally, update the drivers of your PC. The driver menu will consist of a GPU driver, that should be updated first.
Updating the NVidia drivers can fix a lot of things including the fan spinning problems of GPUs.
To update the drivers, check for availability first. You can check it from the Nvidia GeForce Experience software.
Then, hit the ‘update’ button. It’ll download, install, and update your drivers! Besides GPU problems, your drivers should be updated regularly.
You can follow these 3 steps every time you run into a component problem!
Reason 3: Loose/Unplugged Power Connectors
This problem is a common problem, but it’s often overlooked. Since users have to open the casing and diagnose this problem, it’s considered a hassle.
If the GPU is not provided with sufficient power, it cannot function properly. The RTX GPUs fans are a visible indicator of your GPU getting power.
Now you might ask:
Are GPU fans supposed to spin all the time?
No, graphics card fans start spinning to omit excessive temperatures. However, it is possible to set the temperatures of GPUs. Yet, when it gets to 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit, the fans automatically keep on spinning. The main goal of GPU chipsets is to keep the fan temperature under 30 degrees Celsius.
However, If the fans don’t spin, chances are the GPU ain’t getting the juice! There are even cases where GPU-plugged PCs won’t boot, because of the loose and unplugged cables.
Although hardware problems do make users nervous, this one is easy to fix. I’ll help you solve it. Read the step-by-step guidelines below to solve the power problems in a jiffy!
Troubleshoot: Ensure Proper GPU and PSU Connection
Here is the steps for this method-
- First, open the casing of your PC. Locate the GPU that is connected via the motherboard. It should be plugged into the PCI slots of the mobo.
- Then, find the cables that supply power to the Nvidia GPU from the PSU. It should be an 8-pin connector since the RTX 3000 series requires a lot of power. The connectors are also known as PCI express cables.
- Make sure the ends of the cables are attached to the GPU and PSU.
The male end of the connector should be connected to the GPU 8-pin slot. On the other side, the female end should be connected to the PSU.
Note that, if your PSU isn’t modular, there won’t be any female end of the connector. Firmly apply pressure and connect the cable.
If the fans still don’t spin, you can consider replacing the 8-pin connector.
So, these are some causes and fixes behind the RTX 3000 series fan spinning problems!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do I Reduce GPU Fan Noise?
Reducing the speed of the fan can reduce the noise by a huge margin. The fans in a GPU make the most noise, so reducing the speed will reduce the noise. You may also downclock the GPU and use a PC case that is soundproof. The case won’t let the GPU noise escape.
How Do I Know if My GPU Is Failing?
If your graphics card is failing, you’re likely to experience some crashes and surprise reboots randomly. A common symptom of a failing graphics card is screen freezing. The monitor screen will keep on freezing over and over; no matter how many times rebooted. The motherboard will create beeping noises.
How Fast Should My GPU Fan Run?
The speed of your GPU fan should be dependent on the temperature of the GPU. For instance, if the GPU is under 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the fan should run slow. On the contrary, if the temperature exceeds 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit, run it very fast. Cooling the GPU should be the priority here.
The Final Words
Hopefully, you’re clear about the reasons and solutions for RTX 3000 series fan spinning problem.
If you have an availing warranty period, you can take the GPU to the shop. They can fix the fan spinning issue for you!
All the best.
