So, you’ve experienced the dreaded GTX 950 OC Windforce fan failure. You’re not alone. This is a known issue with some cards in this series where one or both of the fans can detach, causing overheating and performance issues. But don’t worry, this guide will walk you through the potential causes and solutions.
Why Did My GTX 950 OC Windforce Fan Fall Off?
Before we dive into solutions, it’s helpful to understand the common culprits behind this problem:
- Fan Blade Fatigue: Over time, the constant spinning can weaken the plastic fan blades, eventually leading to breakage and detachment.
- Worn-Out Fan Bearings: The bearings allow the fan to rotate smoothly. When they wear out, the fan can become loose and eventually fall off.
- Improper Mounting: In some cases, the fans might not have been properly secured to the heatsink during manufacturing, making them prone to coming loose.
- Excessive Vibration: If your PC case isn’t well-ventilated or if the GPU is subjected to excessive physical shock, vibrations can contribute to fan detachment.
GTX 950 Windforce with a detached fan
How to Fix a GTX 950 OC Windforce Fan That Fell Off
Now, let’s explore the steps you can take to address this frustrating issue:
1. Assess the Damage:
- Carefully inspect the detached fan for any physical damage.
- Check the fan connector on the graphics card for any bent or broken pins.
- Examine the heatsink for any signs of damage or debris.
2. Clean the Heatsink and Fan:
- Use compressed air or a soft-bristled brush to remove dust and debris from the heatsink fins and the fan itself.
3. Reattach the Fan (If Possible):
- If the fan is undamaged and the mounting points are intact, you might be able to reattach it.
- Use a strong adhesive like epoxy or cyanoacrylate (superglue) to secure the fan back onto the heatsink.
- Caution: Apply adhesive sparingly to avoid obstructing the fan’s rotation.
Reapplying thermal paste to a GPU
4. Replace the Fan(s):
- In many cases, replacing the fan is the most reliable solution, especially if it’s damaged or the mounting mechanism is broken.
- Finding Replacements:
- Contact Gigabyte Support: They might offer replacement fans, especially if the card is still under warranty.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon or eBay often have compatible fans available.
- Specialty PC Hardware Stores: Local computer stores may carry replacement fans or can order them for you.
5. Consider a Third-Party Cooler:
- For a more robust cooling solution, think about installing an aftermarket GPU cooler. These coolers offer better heat dissipation and can significantly improve your card’s lifespan.
Aftermarket GPU cooler installed on a graphics card
Preventing Future Fan Failures
Here are some tips to minimize the risk of experiencing this issue again:
- Regular Cleaning: Dust build-up can hinder airflow and put extra strain on your fans. Clean your PC regularly, including the GPU.
- Monitor Temperatures: Use monitoring software like MSI Afterburner to keep an eye on your GPU temperature during gaming.
- Good Case Airflow: Ensure your PC case has good airflow to prevent heat from building up inside.
- Gentle Handling: Avoid unnecessary physical shocks or vibrations to your PC.
Conclusion
Experiencing a GTX 950 OC Windforce fan failure can be alarming, but it’s often a solvable issue. By following the troubleshooting steps in this guide, you can get your graphics card back up and running. And remember, regular maintenance and good PC hygiene go a long way in preventing future hardware problems.