I'm planning a build in the Lian Li O11 Vision Compact with three bottom intake fans and a 360 mm Lian Li AIO mounted on the side as an intake. I want the attractive side of the fans facing into the case, so I'm considering replacing the AIO's three stock fans with three reverse-blade fans. Can I reuse the original AIO fans as exhaust fans elsewhere, such as at the rear or top? I would only need two of them. Are there any compatibility concerns involving fan thickness, radiator screws, mounting orientation, or fan headers?
2 Answers
Yes, AIO fans can generally be replaced, and the original fans can be used as regular case exhaust fans. They’re usually standard case fans rather than a special type that only works on the radiator. You could also consider putting the original fans on the opposite side of the radiator for a push-pull setup if the case has enough clearance, although the benefit may be modest.
The main thing to check is fan thickness and the correct screw length. Most fans are 25 mm thick, but some are 15, 28, or 30 mm. Radiator screws need to pass through the fan and enter the radiator only a short distance; screws that are too long can puncture the radiator tubes and cause a leak. Use the screws intended for the replacement fan thickness and mounting arrangement, rather than assuming every included screw is safe.
That airflow arrangement should still work, though adding more exhaust or using the rear and top positions can help balance pressure. In any case, the fan count is less important than ensuring the radiator fans and case fans have adequate clearance and are connected to compatible headers or a suitable controller.
I hadn’t considered push-pull, but I’m not sure whether three bottom intakes plus three side radiator intakes would be excessive with only two exhaust fans.