HP TECH TAKES /...

Exploring today's technology for tomorrow's possibilities
A white OMEN 16L gaming desktop PC case viewed from above, featuring a transparent side panel showing internal components and a perforated mesh front panel for ventilation.

Fan Replacements for OMEN Cooling Systems: Improve Performance and Reduce Noise

Azeez Raifu
|
Reading time: 8 minutes
Your HP OMEN gaming PC is more than a box; it's the heart of your gaming setup. That said, the fans are like supporting pillars, and when they start rattling, humming, or failing, the whole experience feels off. If this happens, don't panic, you can easily replace or upgrade them in HP OMEN PCs.
In this article, we'll walk you through the process of replacing fans, understanding compatibility, gathering the required tools, and exploring what makes the HP OMEN cooling system unique. This not only helps cut noise but also maintains lower temperatures, keeping frame rates steady. Continue reading to learn more.

Why Replace Your OMEN Cooling Fans?

Replacing worn fans could be the one thing that restores your HP OMEN PC to peak condition. Fans age, bearings wear, dust builds up, and vibration increases. There are many reasons why you should inspect and replace your fan, but here are the most important:

Performance Benefits

Replacing worn fans helps increase a PC's performance. With lower sustained temperatures, your system experiences fewer thermal throttles and better boost clocks on CPU and GPU during heavy loads. Better airflow also improves component longevity (meaning cooler capacitors and VRMs age more slowly) and can reduce the need for aggressive fan curves.

Noise Reduction

Not everyone tolerates the whirring, unbearable noise of old fans. Upgrading to genuine OMEN fans (designed for low acoustic signature and steady RPM control) significantly reduces hiss, buzz, and resonance. When you pair this with optimized fan curves, your PC becomes quieter without sacrificing cooling performance.

Warning Signs

You should consider replacing your fan when you notice warning signs like unusual grinding, clicking, or persistent high RPMs at idle. These are clear indicators of mechanical failure. Also, consider replacing if you're upgrading other components (GPU/CPU) that require better airflow.

Cost-Effectiveness vs. Professional Service

Compared to professional repair services, replacing OMEN fans yourself is cost-effective. The fans are affordable, and installation is usually simple.
Doing the work yourself saves time and service fees and helps you learn the layout of your system. However, if the repair is beyond your comfort zone, reach out for professional service.

OMEN Fan Compatibility and Genuine HP Advantages

Understanding what fan is compatible with your HP OMEN PC is important when making the replacement. OMEN systems typically use standard fan form factors (120 mm and 140 mm diameters). However, thickness (25 mm vs. 28 mm), connector types (3-pin vs. 4-pin PWM), and chassis mounting points vary by model.
In the following section, we’ll help you match the right fan to your OMEN PC.

HP OMEN 120mm Fan Specifications (25mm vs 28mm Thickness)

HP OMEN 120mm fans usually come in 25mm and 28mm thicknesses. The extra 3 mm in the latter option matters in cramped layouts, offering slightly higher static pressure at equivalent RPMs. We recommend confirming clearance near front-intake meshes, radiator mounts, and behind drive cages.

Model-Specific Considerations (25L, 30L, 45L Series)

The HP OMEN series has a few physical and electrical differences that make each unique; therefore, it's important to know which fan to use.
The 25L series is compact and sometimes favors slimmer fans, while the 30L balances airflow and space for larger 120/140 mm fans. The 45L supports more aggressive cooling configurations (thicker fans and multi-fan layouts).
Always check model-specific manuals and the OMEN support pages to verify the supported fan sizes, headers, and hub connections.

OMEN Modular Cooling System Compatibility

Some OMEN fans are compatible with the OMEN Modular Cooling Hub. These modular fans and hubs provide centralized power and lighting control. They're designed to work with OMEN Gaming Hub for synchronized fan curves and aRGB effects.

Why Choose Genuine HP OMEN Fans Over Third-Party Options:

Warranty Protection and Official Support
Original HP OMEN fans come with warranty protection and ensure you get official support. These fans are also tested with specific HP OMEN models. If you have any problems, support teams are ready to diagnose issues and provide solutions.
Optimized Integration With OMEN Gaming Hub
OMEN fans are optimized to work with the OMEN Gaming Hub. This allows you to set fan curves, profiles, and link cooling behavior with performance modes. The software avoids manual mapping and ensures PWM control is stable and responsive.
Guaranteed Compatibility With OMEN Systems
When you buy fans, avoid getting incompatible header pinouts or non-standard mounting points. HP fans are designed to work with OMEN thermal requirements, meaning they are compatible with your PC.
aRGB Gen 2 Lighting Synchronization
If you prefer your PC to look stylish, HP OMEN fans also feature aRGB Gen 2 synchronization. This ensures your HP OMEN fan upgrade maintains synchronized color profiles and effects.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start, know that a little prep saves time and prevents damage. It's important to get the right tools and a well-lit workspace. In the following section, we'll guide you through the process of replacing your PC fan and outline the necessary precautions to take.

Required Tools Checklist

  • A Phillips #2 screwdriver
  • A smaller Phillips screwdriver
  • A pair of needle-nose pliers
  • Cable ties or Velcro straps
  • A soft brush
  • A flashlight
  • A magnetic tray

Safety Precautions and ESD Protection

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection is simple but important. We recommend using an anti-static wrist strap grounded to the chassis while working inside the PC.
If you don’t have a wrist strap, frequently touch an unpainted metal part of the case to discharge static before handling components. Always avoid working on carpeted floors.

Workspace Preparation

Start by preparing your workspace with a large flat table, good lighting, and a clean mat or towel. Keep small screws and replacement parts in a shallow dish or a magnetic tray.

Backing Up OMEN Gaming Hub Settings

Always back up your OMEN Gaming Hub settings before you unplug any hardware. You should save profiles for fan curves and lighting that you can restore after replacement.
Do this by opening OMEN Gaming Hub, then going to your lighting and thermal profiles. Export or note your preferred settings. This will help you preserve your custom profiles and save time when you reconfigure fans post-install.

How to Replace OMEN Fans-Step-by-Step Process

Here is a simple step-by-step method to replace the fan on your HP OMEN PC:
1. Start by shutting down your PC (and unplugging the power cable).
2. Open the chassis and locate the fans you're replacing. Take note of cable routing and the headers each fan uses.
3. Remove the old fans by unplugging the fan and lighting connectors. Unscrew each fan mounting screw and gently withdraw the fan from its bracket.
4. Position and install new HP OMEN fans. Secure each fan with the provided screws or vibration-dampening mounts.
5. Route the fan and aRGB cables neatly to avoid contact with blades. Use cable ties or Velcro to secure loose wiring and keep it away from hot components.
6. If your OMEN supports a Modular Hub, plug new fans into the hub's ports. Then, secure the hub to the chassis using the mounting points.
With this, you've successfully installed your new HP OMEN fans in your PC. But wait, that's not all.

Post-Installation Setup and Testing

After replacing the fan, you’ll have to complete some post-installation setups, which include:

OMEN Gaming Hub Fan Control Configuration

Open OMEN Gaming Hub and check that each new fan appears under the fan control or lighting sections. Set an initial conservative fan curve so the newly installed fans ramp gradually.

aRGB Lighting Customization

Next, customize aRGB lighting in OMEN Gaming Hub to verify Gen 2 synchronization. Load a static profile first to confirm each fan's LEDs respond correctly. Then, test dynamic effects and synchronization across other OMEN components.

Temperature Monitoring and Performance Testing

Monitor temperatures with the OMEN Gaming Hub while running a stress test or game. Watch CPU and GPU temps to ensure they stay in expected ranges. If temperatures are higher than expected, revisit the fan installation.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

If your fan isn’t spinning or vibrating, or the lighting doesn’t sync, first power down and recheck connectors. Make sure the PWM connectors are seated, the hub’s power is connected, and no pins are bent. If the problem persists, contact the HP support team.

Maintenance Tips for OMEN Cooling Systems

We recommend you follow these tips to maintain your HP OMEN cooling system (20 SV):
  • Clean your intake filters and fan blades every 3-6 months.
  • Monitor temperatures during regular use and after heavy sessions.
  • Carefully inspect your fan performance visually and audibly every few months.
  • Check for signs that your cooling system needs a gaming PC fan upgrade. Notice things like constant high fan RPMs at low CPU/GPU load, visible dust accumulation, or unusual noises.

Common Questions About OMEN Fan Replacement

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about replacing an OMEN fan:
Can I Mix OMEN Fans With Third-Party Options?
Yes, you can but we do not recommend it, as it will require extra effort. You'll have to verify identical connector types and compatible control signals (PWM vs DC).
How Often Should OMEN Fans be Replaced?
You should replace your OMEN fans when they show mechanical wear or become noisy. This usually occurs after 3 to 6 years.
What Warranty Considerations Apply?
Warranty coverage depends on whether the fan is original and if you installed it correctly. If this is the case, you can use your receipt to claim your warranty.
Does Fan Replacement Void my HP Warranty?
Replacing your fan usually does not void your PC warranty if done with original HP OMEN parts and without damaging other components. However, note that warranty terms vary by region and product.

Conclusion

Replacing a faulty fan is an effective way to reduce noise, lower temperatures, and prolong your PC's life. Follow the installation process, maintenance tips, and post-installation setup to change your fan safely.
Using original HP OMEN fans will keep your PC running at peak performance. Make sure you get them from the official HP store to find the right components to match your model.

About the Author

With 6+ years of experience covering tech, gaming, and entertainment, Azeez Raifu delivers expert reviews and guides that help professionals, creators and gamers find the right PC for work, play, or creativity. His passion for emerging tech, especially in e-sports and gaming, drives hands-on testing and honest insights. From AI-powered business laptops, to high-performance rigs and accessories that enhance your PC performance, he helps you make confident, and informed decisions.

Disclosure: Our site may get a share of revenue from the sale of the products featured on this page.
Country/Region :   United States