I opened my HP 240 G8 laptop to clean the fan because it was not working correctly. Cleaning it fixed the original problem, but I'm now unsure how to correctly position and secure the black cooling component beside the fan. I'm not sure whether it should be installed before the fan or how it is meant to fit, and I'm wondering if using tape would be safe or appropriate. Images of the part and laptop are available at the provided link.
2 Answers
That part is the laptop’s cooling assembly: the heat pipe and radiator that transfer heat away from the processor or graphics chip. Remove the fan, position the cooler correctly first, and then reinstall the fan over it. Make sure the radiator fins are clear of dust, since clogged fins can severely restrict airflow.
I still can’t seem to get it to sit correctly, even when I try installing the fan afterward.
Some HP cooling designs leave a small gap between the fan housing and the radiator, allowing air to escape instead of passing through the fins. If the assembly is otherwise installed correctly, a narrow strip of heat-resistant electrical tape can sometimes seal that gap and improve temperatures. Don’t use ordinary tape, and don’t cover any vents or moving parts.
Thanks, I’ll try removing the fan and seating the cooler first.