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Remove a system fan

Use this information to remove a system fan. You can remove a hot-swap fan without powering off the server, which helps you avoid significant interruption to the operation of the system.

S033
240VA shock hazard
CAUTION

Hazardous energy present. Voltages with hazardous energy might cause heating when shorted with metal, which might result in spattered metal, burns, or both.

S017
moving parts
CAUTION
Hazardous moving fan blades nearby. Keep fingers and other body parts away.
Attention
When removing a system fan without powering off the server, do not touch the system fan cage.

Before removing a system fan:

  1. Remove the top cover. See Remove the top cover.

  2. View the fan error LEDs 1 to locate the failing system fan.

    Figure 1. Viewing the fan error LEDs from the top of the system fans
    Viewing the fan error LEDs from the top of the system fans

To remove a system fan, complete the following steps:

Watch the procedure

A video of this procedure is available at YouTube.

Figure 2. System fan removal
System fan removal

  1. Grasp the top of the system fan with your fingers.
  2. Lift the system fan out of the server.

After removing the system fan:

  1. Install a new system fan or install a fan filler to cover the place. See Install a system fan.

  2. If you are instructed to return the old system fan, follow all packaging instructions and use any packaging materials that are provided.