When you're talking computer fans and computer cooling devices, it's important to know what it is you're talking about. In some cases, buying a "computer fan" means getting a small piece of hardware that sits behind the processor and runs when it needs to (called computer case fans by some). In other cases, business managers look for larger computer cooling devices that are external and meant to cool off either a large microchip system or an entire room.

Computer case fans and computer cooling fans can be a comprehensive high-tech solution for your office. Lots of businesses pay a whole lot of attention to climate control and cooling for supercomputers or network servers, and some employees even complain during the summer, as they sit in hot work spaces, that the computers get treated better than they do!

Different situations call for different computer cooling system solutions. As a business operator or manager, you may end up looking for:

1. A standard PC fan that fits into your "board" setup next to the processor
2. A highly specialized external computer fan that cools a chip or chip setup
3. A cooling system that cools an entire storage space to provide for climate control of a panel of temperature-sensitive technology.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get replacement fans for malfunctioning workstations

If your desktop model is running hot or running the fan erroneously, never fear. A vast array of online vendors will ship your replacement computer cooling fans. When you get your PC cooling fan, you have a few options. You can try to install it yourself, give it to in-house tech support or get outside help. Some units can be easily outfitted, but avoid ponderous DIY solutions like splicing wires or unplugging various ribbon wires. It's best to have some kind of compatibility and installation guide handy.

I recommend: TigerDirect is one online seller of "case fans" for workstations. Some tech support is available on the website.

Get climate control solutions for server rooms or closets

If you're involved in a bigger cooling project, you can find a lot of help online from vendors that will show you what you need and how to use it. Cooling units can provide temporary support during peak running hours or 24/7 solutions.

I recommend: The extensive retail site around CoolCube products is a good resource for business operators looking for big solutions. The site will tell you about maximum BTU load CoolCube can handle as well as good ways to install. Get details, view photos, and apply for a warranty. These are just some of the online features streamlining the buying process.

Get deals on bulk buys and special orders

Some online stores do more work than others in finding you pricing on computer fans and other accessories. Take a look at what some sellers provide to grab bargains on fans and similar equipment.

I recommend: If you're involved in cooling multiple workstations with internal fans, there's a good chance the full menu of accessories at BuyExtras will have something you're looking for. The site also offers volume discounts and claims prices up to 80% lower than box store retail. Look for yourself and assess the deal values at BuyExtras.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Target your solution. Find the heat range of your server space or catalog the models of workstations you need to outfit. These kinds of first-blush judgments are critical if you want to avoid buying too much or the wrong kind of computer cooling fans.