A lot of computers that come across our work stations sound like a freight train running down the tracks. The fans kick in, the hard drive fires up and all the clicking taking place inside that big box called a computer tower. I am sure that when this takes place you are almost afraid to turn it on thinking it is going to explode one day.
Here are some helpful solutions to help make your computer tower a little less noisy.
Hard Drive – If your computer is getting older sometimes the hard drive will start making unusual noises. There is not much that you can do except go out and purchase a new hard drive. What happens is the plates and arms in the hard drive get weak and old and start a clicking or clattering sound.
Clean – Many computer towers that we open up are all caked up with dust or dirt or even worse nicotine. Over time these things get into the fans and make them run terrible and start making strange noises. Take the cover off your tower and clean this garbage out of the tower and especially the fans.
Fans – Most of the fans that come with the computer are little and cheap. Purchasing new ones that are larger and better quality will help quiet the computer.
Move the Computer – By moving the computer to the floor will help. Taking it away from your work area you will not notice the noise as bad. But when putting on the floor it is a good rule of thumb to make sure it is about 6 inches from the floor. Some people use a phone book, or a little stool to sit it on. By doing this it will cut down on the dust and dirt from coming inside the tower.
More Air – Some computers don’t have enough ventilation. By not having enough ventilation it causes the fans to run at top speed to try and keep the computer cool. Make sure that there is plenty of room around the tower and that it is not in a enclosed cabinet. My self I keep the side panel off the tower so it has optimum air flow. An over heated computer will not last long.
These are just a few ideas to quiet a computer down. These items listed above can be done by any novice. If you are afraid to tackle these items call your local technician and see what he may charge to come out and see what he can offer.