Why Does My MacBook Fan Keep Running? 8 Ways to Fix It

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Is your MacBook fan running constantly, and you’re not sure why? This can be a frustrating issue, as it not only creates noise but can also affect the performance of your device.

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In this article, we’ll explore some common causes of a constantly running MacBook fan and provide solutions to help resolve the issue.

From software updates to hardware malfunctions, we’ll cover everything you need to know to get your MacBook running smoothly once again.

Why Does MacBook Fan Keep Running?

MacBook Fan Keep Running

Given below are some of the possible reasons why your MacBook fan may be running excessively

  1. High CPU Usage 

When your MacBook runs multiple heavy applications or tasks, your CPU must work hard. This generates more heat resulting in the fan running more frequently.

  1. Dust and Debris 

Dust and debris often build up over time in your MacBook’s air vents. These obstruct airflow and make the fan run more frequently to cool the laptop.

  1. Software Issues 

Sometimes, a software bug or outdated software can cause the fan to run unnecessarily. You can resolve it by updating your software or running a diagnostic check to identify and fix any issues.

  1. Malware or Viruses 

Malware or viruses cause your MacBook to slow down and put extra strain on the CPU. This results in the fan running more frequently.

  1. Hardware Failure 

In rare cases, a hardware failure, such as a malfunctioning temperature sensor or fan, can cause the fan to run constantly. So, you would require professional repair or replacement.

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  1. Battery Health 

If your battery health is low, it causes your MacBook to work harder, even for basic tasks. Hence your Mac fan runs more frequently.

It’s important to note that some fan noise is normal, especially when performing demanding tasks. However, if the fan is constantly running or the noise is excessive, it may indicate an issue that needs to be addressed.


How to Fix MacBook Fan Keep Running? 

The solutions of the MacBook fan keep running differ as per the reasons. However, before proceeding with any of them, you should be sure that you have understood the fix well!

Below-mentioned is how you can fix the MacBook fan to keep running:  

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Close Unnecessary Applications and Tabs

Too many background tasks and applications increase CPU usage. Thus, you should close most of the background apps and tasks you are not using.

Further, you can also use Activity Monitor to force quit processes you don’t want to use. This would reduce the strain on your CPU and the need for the fan to run.


Clean your MacBook’s Air Vents

Use a can of compressed air to remove dust and debris from the air vents on your MacBook. This would help improve airflow and reduce the need for the fan to run.

Further, you can also use a paintbrush or a lint-free cloth to clean off the air vents. But don’t use liquid detergents, bleaches, or a moist cloth. 

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Update macOS 

Software bug causes your Mac to keep running. Besides, even outdated firmware is an issue. In either case, you should update your software to resolve the issue if not. 

Here’s how you can update macOS:

  • Click on the Apple logo at the top-left corner and select System Preferences from the drop-down menu.
  • In the window, click on Software Update. 
MacBook Fan Keep Running
  • Mac would now detect available updates and click on Upgrade Now or Update Now to proceed. 
MacBook Fan Keep Running

Your Mac will update its firmware and reboot after the process. Updates contain bug patches and hence help to resolve the issue.

If there’s not a glitch, then outdated firmware interferes with the optimum performance of Mac. Thus, you should fix it to get rid of it. 

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Reset SMC (System Management Controller)

Resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) on your MacBook can help to resolve various hardware-related issues, including problems with the fan. 

The SMC is responsible for controlling various hardware functions, and Resetting it helps fix problems. These include related power, thermal management, and the fan.

Follow the steps given below to reset SMC on MacBook:

  • Turn off your MacBook.
  • Plug your MacBook’s power cord out.
  • Hold the power button down for 10 seconds while pressing the “Shift + Control + Option” buttons on the left side of the keyboard.
  • Release the keys
  • Plug the power cable back in
  • Press the power button to turn on your MacBook

Once your MacBook starts up, check if the fan is still running excessively. If the problem persists, the following method will help you! 

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MacBook Fan Keep Running

Reset PRAM

Resetting the PRAM on your MacBook can also help to resolve various hardware-related issues, including problems with the fan. It stores personalization settings and some system parameters.

When the PRAM is reset, it can help fix problems related to system settings and hardware-related issues.

To reset the PRAM on your MacBook, you will need to follow these steps:

  • Shut down your MacBook.
  • Hold down the Command + Option + P + R keys while pressing the power button to start your MacBook.
  • Hold down the keys until you hear the startup sound twice.
  • Release the keys.
MacBook Fan Keep Running

Once your MacBook starts up, check if the fan is still running excessively. It’s important to note that resetting PRAM will erase some of your MacBook’s settings, so you must adjust some settings again.

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Run a Malware Scan

Use a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program to scan your MacBook. Do so to check for viruses or malware that cause the fan to run excessively.


Check your MacBook’s Battery Health

Poor Battery health causes the fan to run continuously as it puts pressure on the system. Before replacing it, do check if that’s the reason or not! 

Follow the steps given below to check for battery health on Mac:

  • Click on the Battery icon at the top-right corner of the Mac and select Battery Preferences. 
MacBook Fan Keep Running
  • Select Battery from the left pane and press the Battery Health button at the bottom of the screen.
MacBook Fan Keep Running
  • Now, your MacBook will display your Battery Health.
MacBook Fan Keep Running

If the Battery Health shows Replace Soon, Replace Now, or Service Battery, you should seek technical help or replace it. These imply poor battery health. If that’s normal, then the following method is the untainted solution. 

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Professional Repair

If none of the above solutions work, it may indicate a hardware issue that requires professional repair or replacement. Take your MacBook to an Apple store or authorized repair center

It’s important to note that if your MacBook is still under warranty, you can contact Apple support for a quick repair.


Tips to Avoid MacBook Fans Keep Running 

To ensure that your MacBook runs smoothly and its fan doesn’t run excessively, there are specific tips and best practices. 

In this section, we will take a closer look at these tips and explain how they help you keep your MacBook fan running at its best.

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  • Keep your MacBook on a hard, flat surface: This will help to ensure proper airflow. Further, it will also prevent the build-up of dust and debris in the air vents.
  • Use power-efficient settings: Adjust the settings on your MacBook. It uses less power and reduces the strain on the CPU.
  • Avoid using heavy applications for prolonged periods: Avoid using heavy applications, such as video editing software or games, for lengthy periods. Besides, don’t use multiple such heavy apps simultaneously. 
  • Keep your MacBook cool: Avoid using your MacBook in hot or humid environments. It would cause the fan to run more frequently.
  • Keep your MacBook updated: Keep your MacBook updated with the latest software and security updates. It will prevent issues that cause the fan to run excessively.
  • Monitor your MacBook’s temperature: You can use third-party apps like iStat Menus to monitor your MacBook’s temperature. It will give you an idea of how hard your mac works and when you need to intervene.
  • Use a cooling pad: Using a cooling pad with your Mac would prevent overheating. Thus, your fan wouldn’t run unnecessarily and maintain your system performance. 

By following these tips, you can help to reduce the frequency at which MacBook fan runs. Thus, it will improve the overall performance of your device.


Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my MacBook fan is running excessively?

You can use third-party apps like “iStat Menus” to monitor your MacBook’s temperature. It will give you an idea of how hard your Mac works and when you need to intervene. Additionally, you should pay attention to the noise level of your MacBook’s fan. If the fan is constantly running or the noise is excessive, it indicates a problem. 

Is it normal for my MacBook fan to run frequently?

You can use third-party apps like “iStat Menus” to monitor your MacBook’s temperature. It will give you an idea of how hard your Mac works and when you need to intervene. Additionally, you should pay attention to the noise level of your MacBook’s fan. If the fan is constantly running or the noise is excessive, it indicates a problem.

Is it normal for my MacBook fan to run frequently?

Some fan noise is normal, especially when performing demanding tasks. However, if the fan is constantly running or the excessive noise indicates an issue that you should fix. 

What should I do if my MacBook fan runs excessively after trying all the solutions?

If none of the above solutions work, it may indicate a hardware issue that requires professional repair or replacement. Take your MacBook to an Apple store or authorized repair center for diagnosis and repair. If your MacBook is still under warranty, you can contact Apple support for a quick repair.

Can dust and debris cause my MacBook fan to run excessively?

Yes, dust and debris can accumulate in the air vents of your MacBook. This blocks airflow and causes the fan to run more frequently to cool the device.

Can software issues cause my MacBook fan to run excessively?

Sometimes, a software bug or outdated software can cause the fan to run unnecessarily. You can resolve it by updating software or running a diagnostic check to identify and fix issues. 

Will a cooling pad help to reduce the frequency at which my MacBook fan runs?

A cooling pad can help to spread and prevent overheating. It reduces the need for the fan to run. It’s beneficial if you are using your MacBook for prolonged periods. It also happens if you use heavy applications that generate a lot of heat.


Conclusion

A constantly running fan on your MacBook can be a frustrating issue. It not only creates noise but also affects the performance of your device. There are several potential causes of this issue. These include high CPU usage, dust and debris in the air vents, software issues, malware or viruses, and hardware failure. 

Understanding the potential causes and taking the appropriate steps to fix the issue. Thus, your MacBook will run smoothly again. 

Some tips to keep in mind include closing unnecessary applications, cleaning your MacBook’s air vents, or updating its software. Further, running a malware scan, checking battery health, and using power-efficient settings helps.

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If none of these solutions work, consider taking your MacBook to an Apple store or authorized repair center for technical support. 

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