I've been using a Dell laptop, and recently I've noticed a strange fuzzy, grinding noise coming from the left side. It seems to be getting worse, but I'm not sure if it's my imagination. The best way I can describe it is as a fuzzy power-sounding noise. I initially thought it might be the fan, but I can still hear the sound even when the fan isn't running. Interestingly, when I shut down my laptop, the noise stops immediately, even if the fan is still active. I've also noticed that the noise disappears when my screen is off. I tried unplugging it to rule out any issues with the power plug, but that didn't help. Just to clarify, I don't have an HDD, so that's not the source. I'm really hoping it's not something electrical or broken since I always use it on hard surfaces and have never dropped it.
2 Answers
It might be the heat sink fan acting up. Based on your description, it could be failing or clogged.
How loud is it? Is it something you can hear normally, or do you have to lean in close to catch the sound?
Not very loud! I have to put my ear right against the laptop to hear it.
Thanks for the suggestion! But wouldn't it still make noise even when the fan is running if it was the fan itself?