Fans are used to move air in and out of your Apple product to help cool it. Your device will monitor internal temperatures and adjust the speed of the fans accordingly to cool components that may get hot with usage.
About Fan Noise
The fans in your Apple product may make noise when they turn on or spin quickly. The amount of noise your fans make depends on how fast they’re spinning, which will depend on the intensity of the tasks being performed on the device.
If you’re running HD video or playing a graphics-heavy game, for example, the processor will work harder and cause the fans to run faster in order to provide more airflow. This might create noise that is noticeable – especially if it’s quiet where you are. If you hear this rushing-air sound, don’t worry! It’s part of the normal cooling process for your device.
Avoid Blocking Vents on Your Apple Device
By ensuring that the vents on your Apple product are unobstructed, you allow hot air to escape and cool air to enter, which will make your device function more smoothly.
Keep your device on a hard, level surface like a table or desk to maintain optimal temperature. If you use it on a soft surface like furniture, bedding, or your lap, its fans will likely have to work harder since hot air will be trapped beneath it.
Fixing Heavy Fan Use
If your device’s fans are going faster than normal, even when the device isn’t being heavily used and is well-ventilated, follow these steps:
- Intel-based Macs can reset the SMC (System Management Controller)
- If you have a Mac computer with Apple silicon, simply close and open the lid of your laptop or restart your device.
- For an Apple TV 4K, Airport Extreme, or AirPort Time Capsule, unplug the device from the power source and then reconnect it.
- On a Mac Pro, check to see if the enclosure is locked and correctly seated. On rack-mounted models, make sure that the top cover or access door is closed and locked.
Contact Us
If you’re still experiencing fan noise or problems with your Apple product, please contact Dave’s Computers for additional help. We would be happy to assist you in troubleshooting and resolving any issues you may be having.
