How To Fix FanControl Not Detecting Fans (CPU/GPU)

If you’re encountering the frustration of FanControl not detecting fans, you’re not alone. This issue often stems from underlying compatibility challenges between FanControl and specific motherboard hardware.

Common symptoms include missing readings for certain fans or headers, leaving you unable to manage your system’s cooling effectively. Fortunately, there are some straightforward steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve this problem.

In this guide, we have explained simple solutions and tips to help FanControl recognize and detect all your fans, ensuring optimal cooling performance for your system.

Why FanControl Won’t Detect Your PC’s Fan?

Several reasons could contribute to FanControl not detecting fans. Here’s a list of potential factors:

FanControl relies on the underlying hardware monitoring library, such as LibreHardwareMonitor. If there’s an incomplete implementation of the chip controlling the fans on your motherboard within this library, FanControl may struggle to detect certain fans.
Some motherboards may not have complete support, leading to detection issues.
Incorrect or incompatible firmware or BIOS settings might hinder FanControl’s ability to communicate with and control fans.
FanControl might have difficulty detecting fans that are daisy-chained together. The software might recognize them as a single entity rather than individual fans.
Fans connected to headers configured in a specific mode (e.g., PWM or DC) may not be recognized by FanControl if the software expects a different mode.
Outdated versions of the hardware monitoring library, such as LibreHardwareMonitor, may lack support for newer motherboards or have unresolved bugs. Ensure you are using the latest version.
Other monitoring or fan control software running simultaneously, might interfere with software’s ability to detect and control fans.
In some cases, plugins or additional software integrated with FanControl might have compatibility issues, causing detection problems.
FanControl relies on the sensors detected by the hardware monitoring library. If certain sensors are not recognized, the corresponding fans may not be detected either.
Incorrect manual configurations, such as assigning the wrong headers or mislabeling fans, can lead to FanControl’s failure to detect fans accurately.

How To Fix FanControl Not Detecting Fans

It’s important to note that these solutions are suggestions from various online discussions. Always exercise caution when making changes to BIOS settings or using third-party plugins.

1. Check Fan Ports Configuration

Ensure that fan ports are set to the correct signal type (PWM or DC) and not left on Auto. Some users have reported issues with certain ports when set to Auto, and manually specifying the signal type resolved the problem.

2. Save BIOS Settings and Clear CMOS

Save your BIOS settings, clear CMOS, and then reload the saved settings. This process can resolve stuck BIOS issues and ensure that the settings are correctly applied.

3. Use HWMonitor to Import Readings

Launch HWMonitor while using FanControl. Some users have observed that FanControl detects fans properly when HWMonitor is active. This workaround involves importing readings from HWMonitor into FanControl.

4. Check FanControl.ADLX Plugin (For GPU Fans)

For users having issues with GPU fans, the FanControl.ADLX plugin for AMD GPUs has been suggested as a solution. This plugin enables FanControl to detect and control AMD GPU fans.

5. Investigate LibreHardwareMonitor Issues

If FanControl is not detecting certain fans, check the LibreHardwareMonitor GitHub repository for any reported issues related to the internal chip controlling the fans on your motherboard. Be aware that this might require coding expertise to address.

6. Verify BIOS Fan Settings

Ensure that the fans causing detection issues are correctly configured in the BIOS. Check whether they are set to PWM or DC mode and experiment with different settings to see if FanControl recognizes them.

7. Check FanControl GitHub Threads

Visit the FanControl GitHub repository and review relevant issue threads, such as those related to incomplete chip implementations. Developers might provide updates or solutions to address specific motherboard compatibility issues.

8. Utilize HWInfo to Help FanControl

Experiment with running HWInfo alongside FanControl. Some users have reported success in getting FanControl to detect fans by having HWInfo open simultaneously. This might involve using the FanControl HWInfo plugin.

9. Investigate Hardware Monitoring Library Updates

Ensure that you are using the latest version of the hardware monitoring library (e.g., LibreHardwareMonitor). Library updates may include bug fixes or improved compatibility with newer motherboards.

10. Consider Alternative Control Software

If FanControl continues to pose difficulties, consider exploring alternative fan control software, such as iCue, which might offer better compatibility with certain motherboards and provide effective fan management.