A loud desktop computer can be a distraction. If your desktop computer sounds too loud, you can take a few steps to reduce the noise. It is often possible to reduce the volume by a few decibels with some small adjustments to the system. These steps can help you create a quieter desktop computer and find the source of the problem.
To determine the louder components inside the desktop computer, you have to remove the side panel of your system to check the internal hardware components. Disconnect the internal components one at a time to help you locate the loudest hardware components inside the case.
Better cable management
Better cable management results in better airflow which may help keep your components cool. Lower operating temperatures result in slower fan speeds of the internal fans and less noise production.
Check the mounting of the fans and tighten the screws. A loose cable or fan may vibrate and this makes your desktop computer sound louder than it s supposed to be. These vibrations are audible outside the computer and may interfere with day-to-day use.
Purchase quieter case fans
Most fans are available at reasonable prices. You may be able to find a fan that blows the same amount of air inside the system and is less loud. Noctua is one of the brands that creates powerful and silent case fans. If you use multiple fans, it may be even possible to remove some from the system. Make sure that you leave at least one intake fan and one exhaust fan.
Adjust the fan speed
If your desktop computer is working at a reasonable temperature, you may be able to adjust the speed of the fans inside the computer. In the BIOS of your motherboard, you can reduce the speed of the fans to reduce the noise levels. There is also software available to reduce or adjust the speed of fans in real-time.
If you adjust the speed of the fans inside your desktop computer, it is best to monitor the temperatures in your system. The processor should idle at no higher than 50 degrees Celsius, and stay below 75 degrees Celsius at load. The dedicated graphics card should idle below 60 degrees Celsius and stay below 90 degrees Celsius at load.
Rubber fan mounts and padded case feet
To further limit the sound of the fans inside your system, you can add additional rubber fan mounts to connect the fan inside the case. These softer mounting solutions may reduce the number of vibrations of the fans against the inside of the computer case. An even cheaper solution is the use of rubber padding between the inside of the case and the fan.
If the computer is standing on a harder surface, such as a desk or floor, the vibration of the computer may cause additional noise. The use of additional padded feet on the bottom of the computer case may reduce the volume of the vibrations. A carpet under the computer can help too, but may lead to dust build-up inside the computer.
Clean your computer
Dust build-up often results in a louder computer or fan. Over time, dust build-up inside your desktop computer could undermine its cooling performance. A loud fan is often the result of dust build-up. To help keep your computer running cool, clean the inside of your computer every six to twelve months.
Remove the dust build-up on your case fans with compressed air. Hold the fan with your finger to keep it from turning. Blow the dust away from the heatsink and fan. If the fans are hard to reach, feel free to remove them from the case for easier cleaning. A clean desktop computer produces less noise.
No more hard drives
Not only fans, but also other internal hardware components such as hard disk drives make noise. Some computer hard drives can be noticeable loud. To reduce the mechanical noise inside your computer, you can remove the hard drives and exchange them for solid state drives. These storage solutions are faster and more quiet because they do not use movable mechanical parts to operate.
Replace the processor cooler
As a final solution, you may want to change the processor cooler. The standard cooler often included with the processor works well, however, it is not ideal given the often high noise level of the component. An after market processor cooler is often more efficient and quieter compared to the standard cooler.
If you wish, you can opt for a water cooler. This solution may cool the processor better than an air cooler, but it is not always quieter due to the presence of both fans and a pump to circulate the water around in the water loop.
Different solutions
You may find other solutions to make your desktop computer work quieter. However, these steps are the easiest to implement for both beginners and more advanced users. In most situations, these steps are enough to reduce the noise levels of your computer. If you have more tips, mention them in the comments so you can help other users.
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Short and precise information. Thanks for sharing this one. A must read post!
Helpful, it works. I use quieter fans now and they do make a difference.
Good article and helpful tips and tricks! Keep up the content.
Spot on with this write-up. This website needs much more consideration. Thanks for the info.