Is there a way to clean the fan without removing the heatsink? 11th Gen Intel

Framework Laptop 13
1

Hi guys,

I think my 11th gen mainboard is due for a fan cleaning. I am looking at the instructions located here but I’m nervous about removing the heatsink. Is there a way to service the fan without removing the heatsink entirely?

Thanks in advance.

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Now - I’ve never done this before so it’s more generic advice.

Can you not just blow out the fan with compressed air, using a duster can and that little straw? The only thing you should be careful about is spinning up the fan with the air pressure - keep the fan blades from spinning by (carefully) jamming an object to block them, like a pen tip or a paper clip. You don’t want to over-rev the fan with the air since that can damage the bearing. But you do want to blast the dust out. Put the straw in several places and give it a blast.

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Those instructions are for replacing the heatsink, not cleaning it. There is no need to remove it for cleaning – Speaking from experience, compressed air will do just fine.

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4

Thanks guys, this is helpful. I have compressed air so will work on that.

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You can clean the heatsink and fan this way without repasting but you would need to access the underside of the mainboard…

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I was told to avoid that to prevent spin-induced current from the fan frying laptop internals. Is that worry unfounded?

Either way, if you have ventilation issues on that gen you should seriously consider repasting if not done yet, many people have reported big gains.

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Frying the board is unlikely, but it’s generally recommended to use your finger or a piece of tape to avoid overspeeding the bearing.

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