The fan in my MacBook Air is constantly running, especially if I'm streaming video content. Should I be concerned by this?

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The fan in my MacBook Air is constantly running, especially if I'm streaming video content. Should I be concerned by this?

I use my Mac to do alot of online movie and TV watching. I usually watch at least one or two movies or TV programs a night. Whenever I watch anything these days the internal fan starts up and typically stays on until the streaming ends. Should I be concerned by this? Is there anything other than steaming less that I can do to lessen the need for the fan? Has anyone else noticed this issue in their Macbook Air? My Mac is about 8 months old. Thanks

Posted on Jun 12, 2012 8:27 PM

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Retired Engineer

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Jun 13, 2012 3:07 AM in response to wjb3

The fan is there to cool the cpu when it is under a heavy load.

Video streaming is a heavy load.

If the fan didn't speed up the cpu would overheat and shut the machine off.

It's not an issue. It's the way all computers work.

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Answer 2

wjb3 Author

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Jun 14, 2012 11:28 AM in response to Retired Engineer

I appreciate your quick response. I recognize that 'it's the way all computers work'... it's just that - and I didn't make this clear - the fan never came on in the first 6 months of use now it seems like it's always on, but I hear you: streaming is a heavy load so the fan comes on and cools the cpu. Question answered, thanks much.

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