Which way should I install my fans?

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cjrw59

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Aug 6, 2014
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I have the corsair spec 01 series case and it comes with one 120mm red LED fan at the front. I have ordered two other led fans too. I was thinking of installing another fan at the front and then one at the top of my case. Should I install the fan at the top of the case as an intake or as an exhaust? Do I even need an exhaust fan for my computer?
 
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Adroid
You should always have positive airflow in your case. If you have 3 fans, install 2 intake in the front, and one exhaust in the back.
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Bluemoon_9

Bluemoon_9

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Install one at the back as exhaust. And one at top exhaust.

I run a Spec-02 with this configuration and my temperature never exceeded 51 C (Ambient temp mid to low 30) .

Exhaust is important id you have a mid to high end GPU and processor and if you overclock them.

 
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Adroid

Adroid

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Positive pressure minimizes hot spots in a case. Static pressure is important too. Having a negative pressure can reduce air flow in the corners of the case, where the path of air does not directly pass over.

In mechanical engineering, engineers typically want a slightly positive pressure to ensure air circulation in public buildings so people can breath fresh air.

Similarly, I believe cases should have more intake than exhaust - so more fresh air is being forced in than sucked out.

It's a bit more complicated than that, but hopefully you can see the relation. Most modern case designers will include 2 intake fans, and one exhaust for the same reason - to ensure good airflow with a slightly positive pressure.
 
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Adroid

Adroid

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I don't argue what "some people" swear by... But I do question if they understand mechanical engineering or static pressure and similar.

The real proof is "in the pudding". If you have 3 case fans, try moving them around in different orientations and positions. In 99/100 cases (pun intended), 2 intakes and 1 exhaust will make your PC run the coolest. It would be an interesting experiment... But I would rather just trust the judgement of people who have time to do such things, such as modern case designers... And believe they use more intake than exhaust for a reason.
 
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Bluemoon_9

Bluemoon_9

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Funny thing here is if I install two front intake and one exhaust and block the upper fan vent (Because of dust), I get around 55 id medium /high load.

I think because hot air goes up and the one exhaust can not expel all hot air efficiently, and it pools.

Just my personal experience :)
 
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