A computer, whether it’s a PC or a MAC, whether laptop or desktop, contains a very large number of parts and components that allow it to carry out all the functions we would struggle to do without nowadays.
And among all these elements, there is a very important piece of hardware that needs to be taken care of to avoid unpleasant surprises, and to be wary of when it makes too much noise: the hard drive.
What is a hard drive?
It is a piece of equipment usually shaped like a more or less thick rectangular case, somewhat like a disk drive, whose purpose is to store all the data you want. It’s thanks to it that you can save your files: photos, videos, music, text documents, etc. In short, all the files you want, up to its maximum storage capacity.
All computers have at least one internal hard drive. Some contain two or even more, in order to be able to store even more data.
There is also the possibility of using an external hard drive, whose purpose is also to extend the computer’s initial storage capacity. Its second advantage is that it is easily transportable and usable: you connect the drive to another computer using the data cable, and depending on the model chosen, a power cable to an electrical outlet, so you can, for example, immediately access the data.
What are the reasons my hard drive is making noise?
A healthy hard drive makes almost no noise.
When the computer is switched on, it emits a light characteristic hum as it starts up, then a series of regular clicks during use. The more it is used, the more clicking there is.
If it makes more noise than usual and the hard drive emits loud clacking sounds, then there is a problem and you need to act without delay.
There are four main reasons that can explain a noisy hard drive:
- A mounting issue. If it is not properly secured inside the computer, it vibrates and makes noise. These vibrations, in addition to causing an auditory nuisance, risk causing premature wear of the hardware until it becomes completely unusable. If it makes noise right after purchase, this indicates a problem during assembly; if it makes noise a few months later, this often means the computer has been used improperly.
- Bad sectors. A hard drive is divided into very large numbers of zones, called sectors, to allow large amounts of data to be recorded and read. Sometimes, for physical reasons or following software issues, certain areas of the drive may become defective: this causes noise and prevents the equipment from operating optimally.
- A specific component is damaged and is making noise. If a computer is made up of many computer parts, a hard drive is also a piece of equipment where many components coexist that can become damaged. This could be a read/write head, the motor, the platters, the spindle, etc. All these parts (made of glass, aluminum, or ceramic) can be affected by an impact, improper handling, and even a simple speck of dust deposited on the read heads.
- Normal wear. Like any piece of hardware, this is a component that logically wears out from being used, and the direct consequence is that it makes noise. In addition, the environment in which it is used (a very hot or very cold, humid or overly dry room) is a factor that affects its lifespan. Note that its average lifespan is around five years. Beyond that point, signs of deterioration, more or less significant, may appear.
What are the solutions to repair my hard drive?
Fortunately, a hard drive making noise doesn’t always mean it needs to be replaced, and especially doesn’t mean you’re going to lose all of your data.
There are many possibilities and solutions for repairing it if it is making noise, ranging from simple cleaning to replacing a defective part, including checking the mounting systems.
All these operations are carried out using specific equipment, such as screwdrivers specially designed for computer repairs, and the use of programs such as diagnostic software to help identify the cause or causes of a malfunction.
In any case, know that it is best to entrust the repair of your hard drive to computer repair professionals. To repair the drive, they have the experience and equipment necessary to handle your hard drive with care, find the cause of the noise, and repair your drive effectively, while preserving as much as possible the data stored on it.
A few good habits to have
- Remember to back up your data on an external hard drive.
The advantage is twofold: it will save you from data loss following improper handling and the need for future data recovery. On the other hand, when you entrust your computer to a professional for repair, you have a copy of your data so you can continue to use it easily on another computer. - Don’t overload your drive unnecessarily, remember to clean it out regularly. If you no longer use certain files, remember to delete them completely. This allows your hard drive to “lighten” itself of unnecessary data and perform better, for example when it needs to save or search for a file. Also, don’t forget to regularly check that your computer’s trash is empty in order to make the most of your available storage space.
- If you use a laptop, don’t place it on your lap, as you risk creating too much pressure on a particular area of the device, potentially damaging a part. Always use your computer equipment on a flat, rigid, clean surface, and you will limit the occurrence of noise during use.
Generally speaking, in order not to unnecessarily strain your computer, remember to turn it off or put it to sleep when you are not using it for an extended period. This will help preserve your hard drive, as well as your computer in general.