Laptop fans keep the internal components of your notebook computer within functioning temperatures and prevent damage from overheating. When a laptop fan fails or is too dirty to work properly it is necessary to open the laptop and replace or clean the fan. While the Lenovo website states that no end user should attempt a fan replacement it is actually quite simple requiring only a few tools and a little time. First, remove the battery, unplug the power adapter and turn off the laptop to prevent electric shock. Start by removing the four screws to the keyboard and remove it from the laptop. There will be a cable attached to that needs to be pulled off of the keyboard.

Set the keyboard aside to be reattached later. The fan is located on the right side of the laptop assembly and has a single screw holding it in place. Remove it to reveal the fan; the fan uses thermal paste to disperse the heat and it needs to be removed. Use rubbing alcohol and some patience to remove the paste. After this the fan can be removed from the assembly and the new installed. When applying the new thermal grease or paste be sure to use a clean plastic baggie over your hand to ensure a clean application of paste. Only a small amount is need to transfer heat; too much can actually transfer less heat. Reattach the notebook fan making sure it is square with the processor and repeat these steps in reverse.

To clean a dirty fan remove the keyboard as previously instructed to reveal the laptop fan assembly. With a small can of compressed air you can spray out much of the dirt and dust that may be clogging the fan and hindering its effectiveness.