Why your laptop fans spin up without any warning

With a bit of cleaning and system management, you can keep your laptop fan from jump-scaring you.

By Jack Peachey Nov. 8, 2026 3:30 pm EST Onephic Studio/Shutterstock Add Engadget on Google: Google Discover

You're sitting down with your laptop in front of you, getting a bit of light work done, when suddenly you hear what sounds like a jet engine going off. Your computer's fans start roaring and whirring, but after a short moment, everything is quiet again. If you've ever had your laptop fan sound off without warning like this, there are a few possible causes.