Perhaps You Don't Need To Fix Your GPU Fans
The GPU may be in idle mode, which is a frequent cause of the GPU fans not spinning.
If that's the case, you don't need to do any extra tests because the card's fans will probably begin to spin as soon as the GPU's load begins to increase.
How can I tell whether my GPU is in idle mode if the fans aren't spinning?
The simplest method is to use your GPU's driver software or a third-party program like Open Hardware Monitor to check the temperature of your GPU.
The default fan curve may be to blame for the absence of the fans if the temperature is below a certain threshold, say 50C.
However, as soon as the GPU is under stress from a load, it will begin to heat up and the fan curve settings will start to turn on the fans.
Screenshot of my fan curve settings in AMD Radeon Software
Both Nvidia and AMD's driver software, GeForce Experience and Radeon Software, respectively, let sophisticated users modify fan curve settings.
GPU Fans Not Spinning – Causes and Remedy
In order to handle the issue of GPU Fans not spinning even though they should, we must first consider the most frequent reasons and straightforward fixes:
Dust Accumulation on GPU Fan Blades
The most frequent reason for GPU fans not spinning is dust.
In the heatsink, dust and debris can accumulate over time and eventually reach the top, preventing the blades from spinning up.
How is that even feasible? How may some dust stop fans from turning?
After all, we're discussing strong fans with a high RPM…
Although GPU fans are strong, they have very low torque, thus even a small obstruction can stop the blades and prevent them from turning.
Solution: Completely clean your computer and GPU's inside
It should go without saying that if you haven't recently cleaned your GPU or PC and you've noticed the fans are either not spinning or making odd noises when they ramp up, you're in for a belated cleaning session.
For this kind of stuff, a can of compressed air is your best buddy. Use it to remove all of the dust from the heatsink and the blades.
To avoid blowing dust into your room, take the entire PC outside and clean it while the side panel is off.
Cable Management Issues
Another extremely frequent cause why the GPU fans aren't spinning is cables blocking the blades.
As previously mentioned, a little obstruction can stop these low-torque fans from ramping up, thus cables getting in the way is a regular problem.
Solution: Move interfering cables
This one is really simple; all you have to do is make sure that there are no cables close to the fans.
If there are, either put some time into better management or use a few zip ties to get them out of the way.
Mechanical Breakdown
If you already:
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Cleaned the heatsink and fans' inside.
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Checked to make sure no debris was lodged between the fan's blades and that the cables were connected properly.
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Double-checked to be sure the fan curve wasn't the problem.
Consequently, I'm afraid you're experiencing a mechanical issue.
Solution: Replace the Fan
You might have to replace the fan if nothing else works properly
You can simply order the item online and complete the installation yourself if you are familiar with PC hardware.
Source: GPU Fan Replacement
You can always send an expensive piece of equipment, like a GPU, to an approved service facility if you'd prefer not to touch it.
If your card is still covered by warranty, you can RMA it to receive a new one or have the problem rectified for no cost.
Summary
There's a good chance something is wrong if you've just realized your GPU fans aren't spinning even while the system is under load.
You have a big issue on your hands if you've also observed that your GPU is overheating.
Make sure the fan blades are completely clean, free of dust and other debris, and that no loose cables are sandwiched in between them to prevent the fans from spinning.
Even if you've already performed high-load tests, it's still important to confirm that your fan curve isn't completely set to 0%.
Even though it's a slight possibility, it's still preferable to check than to purchase a new GPU fan.
I'm afraid you're looking at a mechanical issue if you've checked all of the above and your GPU is still overheating and its fans aren't spinning.
As a result, you must:
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1: If it is still covered by warranty, RMA it.
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2: Place an order for new GPU fans.
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3: Send your GPU to a certified service provider.
FAQs
Can GPU fans not spin cause overheating?
Yes, if your GPU fans aren't functioning properly, which can happen for a variety of reasons, your GPU may begin to overheat.
In order to work on the solution, you must discover the cause of the issue and understand why the fans aren't operating.
However, under some circumstances, idle GPU fans won't result in overheating.
How is that even workable? In any case, the card's fans won't turn on if it's in idle mode (f.e. >50 C) until the GPU temperature crosses the threshold.
Can thermal throttling occur when GPU fans aren't spinning?
It depends on the cause of why they aren't spinning.
The GPU is likely to thermal throttle under high loads if there is a mechanical issue, dust buildup, or a blocked cable.
The same is true for modified fan curves that were either directly copied from the internet or improperly evaluated.
Do GPU fans always spin?
No, GPU fans don't run continuously.
Once the GPU reaches a particular temperature, the fans will only begin to turn.
Until then, the fans will remain in place because the card's heatsink will be adequate to adequately reduce heat under lighter (or no loads at all).
When do GPU fans start spinning?
The card's temperature will rise as the main cause, and the fans will activate to reduce it.
The card's fan curve, which can be modified using the AMD/Nvidia driver software, regulates this.