How to Replace a Laptop Fan – HP OMEN Step-by-Step Repair Guide

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OVERVIEW:

In this repair guide, we walk through the process of replacing the noisy, grinding fans in an HP Omen Gaming Laptop, model 16-k0033dx. This unit was sent to our mail-in repair portal for fan replacement after the bearings had completely worn out. While only one fan was visibly damaged, both were replaced to ensure longevity and prevent future issues. We’ll show you step-by-step instructions on disassembling the laptop, removing the heat sink and fans, applying thermal paste, and reassembling the device. Follow this detailed guide to fix your own HP Omen laptop at home.

See the official HP specs for the OMEN

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REPAIR TIME & SKILL LEVEL:

This repair is estimated to take about 1.5 HOURS to complete and is of INTERMEDIATE difficulty, requiring careful handling of thermal components and motherboard connectors.

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STEPS:

Tools You Need

For this repair, you will need a Phillips screwdriver, a plastic pry tool for separating the bottom panel, thermal paste for reapplication, and replacement fans specific to the HP Omen 16-k0033dx. You may also benefit from a plastic card or spudger to help loosen adhesive and safely disconnect internal components.

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Remove the Bottom Cover

• Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the eight screws from the bottom panel—four at the top and four at the bottom.
• Carefully work your way around the panel edges with a pry tool to release the clips holding the panel in place.
• Once all clips are released, lift and remove the bottom cover to expose the internal components.

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Disconnect the Battery

• Disconnect the battery from the motherboard to safely work on internal components.
• Ensure the connector is fully unplugged before proceeding with the rest of the disassembly.

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Assess and Identify the Faulty Fans

• Examine both fans inside the laptop; although only one is clearly grinding, the other has a worn bearing as well.
• Decide to replace both fans, as one failing fan often indicates the other is not far behind.

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Remove Heat Sink Screws

• Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the labeled heat sink screws, starting with 1 through 7.
• Set each screw aside carefully, keeping track of their placement for reassembly.

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Remove Fan Mounting Screws

• Unscrew the mounting screws securing each fan to the chassis and heat sink.
• Remove additional screws at the top left (for a heat pipe) and top right (for the heat fins).

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Detach the Heat Sink Assembly

• Gently pry up the heat sink using a tool if needed—avoid pulling on the copper pipes to prevent bending.
• Pull up the heat sink in a lifting motion, and set it aside without removing the fans yet.

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Disconnect and Remove the Old Fans

• Unplug the fan connectors from the motherboard before attempting to remove the fans.
• Carefully lift the fans out and set them aside after disconnection.

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Clean the Surface and Prepare for New Parts

• Clean the contact area of the CPU and GPU to remove old thermal paste.
• Prepare your new fans and apply new thermal paste for optimal cooling performance.

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Install the Replacement Fans

• Position the new fans in their respective places.
• Plug in the fan connectors before reinstalling the heat sink, as access will be blocked afterward.

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Reapply Thermal Paste

• Apply a generous amount of non-conductive thermal paste to both the CPU and GPU dies.
• It’s better to apply slightly more than too little—excess paste will spread out naturally.

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Reinstall the Heat Sink

• Position the heat sink back in place over the CPU and GPU.
• Begin reinstalling screws by starting with the outer screws for the heat pipes.
• Reattach screws that hold the heat sink and fans together.

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Tighten Heat Sink Screws in Sequence

• Reinstall heat sink screws in their labeled order (1 through 7), starting each with a few threads before moving to the next.
• Once all screws are lightly threaded, gradually tighten them in a cross-pattern to ensure even pressure.
• After finger-tightening, add a quarter turn for secure mounting.

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Reconnect and Reinstall the Battery

• Due to a short battery cable, remove the battery, plug in the connector, and then reinstall the battery.
• Screw the battery back into position and double-check the connector for a firm, seated fit.

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Test the Fans Before the Final Assembly

• Plug in the charger and power on the unit before sealing it shut.
• Observe fan activity: the CPU fan should spin, while the GPU fan may remain idle until high temperatures are reached.
• Confirm system boots into the operating system successfully.

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Reassemble the Bottom Cover

• Reposition the bottom panel and press it firmly to re-engage the clips around the edges.
• Use the Phillips screwdriver to reinstall all eight bottom screws (four top, four bottom) to secure the cover.

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CONCLUSION:

Replacing the fans in an HP Omen 16-k0033dx gaming laptop requires careful disassembly and reassembly of critical thermal components. Although only one fan was initially faulty, replacing both ensures better long-term performance. The step-by-step process includes removing the heat sink, cleaning and reapplying thermal paste, and testing the new fans before sealing up the laptop. Following this guide will help you achieve a clean and successful fan replacement. Be sure to use the right tools and take your time with each step.

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VIDEO TUTORIAL:

Looking for a more in-depth tutorial? Check out our complete teardown video for a detailed step-by-step walkthrough.

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MAIL-IN REPAIR SERVICE:

We offer professional screen replacement services. If you’re unsure about doing this repair yourself, send your device to our expert technicians for fast and reliable repair.

https://tekdep.com/device-repair/

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SHOP PARTS:

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SHOP TOOLS:

Using precision tools ensures a safe and efficient repair. Always use the right tools to prevent damage to delicate components. The right gear can make the difference between a smooth repair and a frustrating one.

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HAVE QUESTIONS?

We’re here to help! Contact us:

• Phone: 818-456-4479
• Email: [email protected]

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