Fan problem, cooling solutions

[bob152]

Hello,
compaq presario laptop. windows vista.

the internal fan has apparently crapped out. it makes loud noises at all times now. i am aware that the fan is sometimes loud- this is a distinct change from 4 years of use.

looking through this forum, it seems that not much can be done except expensive repairs or to change cooling method. so if i take the advice here, and go with an external fan and a cooling pad to manage the temperature, how can i shut off the fan so that 1. nothing breaks further 2. the terrible noise stops?

or have i misinterpreted the forum advice and i need to have this worked on by a pro?

thank you very much for any help/advice you care to provide.

[patio]

A shop can give you an estimate of the cost of the fan replacement...

[Computer_Commando]

http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000780.htm
http://www.instructables.com/id/Extend-your-laptop-s-life!-Clean-the-dust-out-of-i/

[bob152]

thanks for your responses.

my vents are too small for q-tips. i tried a swiffer, and tried compressed air without results. my 'heat sink' area seems more locked in than the one in that demo, so i can't take it out to clean properly.

IYO, at this point, my better option is a repair shop?

[patio]

They can at least give you a cost estimate....then go from there.

PS. Some...not all laptop manuf. have dis-assembly guides on their sites...