How to eliminate the hum that my computer emits

Is your computer making strange noises? Try these ways to fix it! Is your computer making strange noises? Have no idea where the buzz is coming from? Are you worried? Well, don’t panic, there are a lot of things that can be responsible for the buzz. While some sounds are completely standard, others may indicate that your system may need attention or repair.

Most common reasons computers make humming sounds

Well, PCs usually spend most of their time in an idle state, without consuming a lot of resources or processor power. It shouldn’t “buzz” unless you use the machine for long hours. Unexplained hums from your computer or laptop are caused by:

• Powder: with aging, the computer acquires dust, lint which can prevent fans from running efficiently.
• Excessive CPU (Central Processing Unit) Usage: Excessive use can cause overheating and noise problems.
• Problem with fans: If the fans are slow, too small, or not powerful enough, they can emit loud hums.
• Obsolete hard drives: hard drives dying they can also make grinding noises, as the platters spin and the head searches for data.
• Component malfunction: If components are loose or vibrate against the computer chassis.
• Strange Noises: Clicking sounds coming from the speakers, even when the PC is not playing audio.
• Faulty power supply: Sometimes, inadequate power supply can also be responsible for generating hum.

How to stop my computer from making noise and hum?

Here are some of the best ways to stop your computer / laptop from making weird noises.

1. Clean computer fans

Well, the fans can run for years without problems. But they could break if not properly maintained or due to normal wear and tear. Hence, you need to clean the fans regularly. Cleaning the internal fans isn’t as difficult as you might think. You certainly don’t need many tools for the process, just a rag and a can of compressed air.

1. Begin by shutting down the system and unplugging it from the outlet (including all peripheral cables).
2. Take your PC to an open area so you can easily get rid of dust and other debris.
3. Open the case using a screwdriver and clean the case fans by blowing compressed air.
4. Don’t forget to thoroughly clean your motherboard, graphics cards, hard drive, power supply fan and other components.

Once done, simply put the case back on. Start your PC to check if it is still making a loud buzzing or other strange sounds. If yes, go ahead and try the next workaround.

2. Lift the computer / laptop off the work surface

Especially in warmer climates. Make sure your device gets as much ventilation as possible. You can use a set of books or a stand to support the back of the laptop. This will help you with proper ventilation and will definitely help you get good posture. A win-win situation, isn’t it? Why is my Mac overheating? 8 methods to solve

Also, if your speakers are making annoying noises, even when your PC isn’t playing any audio, here are some things you need to do. Check that the speaker cable is connected correctly. If the problem persists, the speaker cable may need to be replaced!

3. Eliminate background processes

When the computer starts to use a lot of system resources or makes strange sounds. You may need to shut down all unnecessary processes and forcefully close apps to fix the problem.

The easiest way to do this in Windows is via Task Manager:

1. Press the hotkeys: CTRL + ALT + DEL and click on the Task Manager option.
2. Go to the Processes tab.
3. Select the process, which consumes a lot of resources than it should, and right-click it to click the End Task button.

Alternatively, Mac users can rely on Activity Monitor to manage unauthorized processes and prevent the computer from making humming noises.

4. Empty disk space

Read our article: Windows 10, how to free up space on C drive

5. Search and destroy malware

Malicious content and viruses they are one of the most annoying things to have on your computer. Malware or other security threats can drastically slow down your system and make it sluggish.

Read our article: Free Antivirus for Windows, the best of 2020

If all fails, then what?

Well, then it might be time to replace your fan. There is a high probability that it may have degraded to the point where no internal or external cleaning can restore performance to normal.

If you know any other professional tips that can help you stop your computer from making annoying buzzing, buzzing or screeching noises. Mention them in the comments section below!