How to fix abnormal fan noise on MacBook
Is your MacBook spinning at full speed the instant it turns on? Is it making unusual clicking or humming noises? Try these solutions!
This could be caused by a number of reasons. Here are some possible solutions to help you troubleshoot and resolve this issue:
1. Reset NVRAM/PRAM
NVRAM and PRAM store some of your MacBook's hardware settings, and resetting these settings can sometimes resolve fan issues.
Shut down.
While pressing the power button to start up your MacBook, immediately press and hold the Option + Command + P + R keys.
Keep holding these keys until you hear the second startup sound or see the Apple logo disappear.
Release the keys and your MacBook will restart.
2. Reset the SMC (System Management Controller)
The SMC is responsible for managing hardware functions such as power management, thermal management, fan control, and more. If there is a problem with the SMC, it may cause the fans to run erratically.
For MacBooks with T2 chips:
Shut down, press and hold the right Shift + left Control + left Option keys and the power button simultaneously for 10 seconds.
Release all keys, then press the power button to turn on the computer.
For MacBooks without the T2 chip:
Shut down, hold down Shift + Control + Option (on the left side) and the power button for 10 seconds.
Release all keys, then press the power button to turn on the computer.
3. Check the temperature and Activity Monitor
Your MacBook's fans usually automatically adjust their speed based on the internal temperature. If the CPU or GPU is overheating, the fans may run at high speed. Check if any programs are taking up a lot of processor resources:
Open the Activity Monitor app.
Check if there are any programs with high CPU usage, especially the "%CPU" column.
End unnecessary programs.
4. Check the health of your hard drive or SSD
When there is a problem with your hard drive or SSD, it may cause your MacBook to operate abnormally, causing the fan to make abnormal noises.
Use Disk Utility to check the health of your hard drive.
If there is an abnormality, you can try to repair or back up your data and replace the hard drive.
5. Check for internal dust or dirt
After long-term use, dust may accumulate on the fans and heat dissipation vents, causing the fan to become less efficient. Try to clean the fans and vents with compressed air, especially on the sides and bottom of the MacBook.
6. Update macOS
Sometimes, operating system updates will fix some hardware-related driver problems. Make sure your macOS system is up to date and go to System Preferences > Software Update to check for updates.
7. Use Apple Diagnostics
If none of the above methods work, you can use Apple's built-in diagnostic tools to check if there are any hardware problems.
Turn off your MacBook.
Press the power button and immediately hold down the D key.
Follow the on-screen prompts to diagnose.
8. Check if it's a software problem
Some programs (especially those running in the background) may cause your MacBook to work too hard, and the fans need to increase speed to cool it. You can use Activity Monitor to detect system resource usage and end unnecessary processes.
9. Contact Apple Customer Service or Repair
If none of the above methods can solve the problem, it may be a hardware failure (such as a damaged fan, motherboard problem, etc.). At this time, it is recommended that you contact Apple's after-sales service or go to an authorized repair point for inspection and repair.
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