When a GPU fan is not working as expected, it will start creating performance issues that compromise the rest of the system.
This is why it’s important to not ignore the sounds that are coming from the fan. This is a common issue that can lead to long-term concerns if not addressed as soon as possible.
One issue people report is when the GPU fan is loud on startup.
If the GPU fan is loud on startup, this is normal and something most fans do. In essence, the noise is created when the fan spins in reverse to clear dust/debris before going back into its original movement pattern. The only time to be concerned is if the noise is persistent.
In most cases, this is a sound that is going to occur whether the GPU fan is old or new.
Do not panic and pay attention to see how long the sound lasts.
This guide is going to take a look at the reasons for a GPU fan being loud on startup and what to consider when it comes to sounds coming from a GPU fan in your system.
Reasons For A GPU Fan Being Loud On Startup
1. Excess Dust And Debris
If a GPU fan is suddenly loud, you will want to be patient.
In general, this is common with all types of makes and models. It has more to do with how the fan’s settings work as a way to prevent further damage and to make sure the heat generation is handled with care.
As a result, you will realize the GPU fan making noise when the system starts up.
This is due to excess dust and debris in the fan blades.
This causes the fan to spin quickly to clear out the dust and debris. It is a way to preserve the fan and also make sure the system has a fresh start when it has been turned on.
This is far more common when the system has been sitting idle for a long period and is then started by the user.

2. Brief Spinning In Reverse
You will want to think about the spinning process when a GPU fan is turned on.
If a GPU fan is loud when starting up, this means it is spinning in reverse. This is something the GPU fan is engineered to do and it is not extraordinary behavior on the part of the component.
Instead, it is common with the average GPU fan.
In essence, you are going to notice the GPU fan spin for a few seconds in reverse. This is done to clear out dust and debris. Due to the nature of how the fan spins, it causes noise to be generated.
This noise is normal and something that will go away after a few seconds.
3. A Sign Of Needing A Tighter Cleaning Schedule
It is common for a GPU fan to be loud after cleaning but it is still a sign that you should maintain a tighter cleaning schedule.
What does this mean?
The goal is to have shorter waiting periods between cleaning sessions. This will keep the GPU fan in good shape and ensure it does not need to spin in reverse aggressively.
In many cases, users never clean their GPU fan, which means a lot of dust collects inside.
Having a tighter cleaning schedule is going to make it a lot easier to quiet a GPU fan on startup.

4. Loose Connection
If a GPU fan is too loud, you might have a prolonged issue.
This is why paying attention to the noise is essential.
You will want to take a look at how loose the connection is where the GPU fan is hooked. If it is loose, this might be causing the noise as it rattles inside. You will want to tighten that connection if the noise does not go away after a few seconds of starting up.
Final Thoughts
These are the reasons for a GPU fan to become loud on startup.
If a GPU fan becomes loud on startup, it is normal as long as it lasts a few seconds. This sound occurs when the fans spin backward to clear out dust and/or debris. The sound will then go away. If it persists, this might mean the GPU fan is loose or damaged.
Your best bet is to solely focus on the type of sound being made and how long it lasts.
If it is just for a few seconds when starting up then there is nothing to worry about. This is normal and happens with all GPU fans. Just take the time to maintain a better cleaning schedule to get more value from the GPU fan.
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