Tools You May Need
- Can of compressed air
- Torx T15 Screwdriver (for internal access)
- Plastic pry tool (optional, for panel removal)
- Replacement cooling fan (if necessary)
- Safety Glasses
Troubleshooting & Repair Steps
- Disclaimer: This guide involves opening your speaker, which will void your warranty and carries a risk of damage if done incorrectly. Proceed at your own risk. Professional service is recommended.
- Identify Normal vs. Abnormal Noise: The fan is designed to run when the speaker is charging or playing at high volumes to cool the amplifier. A smooth, low 'whirring' sound is normal. A loud rattling, buzzing, or grinding noise indicates a problem.
- Improve Airflow (First Step): Ensure the speaker is not in an enclosed space like a cabinet. Make sure the rear vents are not blocked by a wall or fabric. Do not operate the speaker on a soft surface like a bed, which can block airflow.
- External Cleaning: Power off and unplug the speaker completely. Use a can of compressed air to blow dust *out* of the fan vents on the rear panel. Short bursts are more effective. This may dislodge simple dust buildups causing noise.
- Internal Cleaning (Advanced): If external cleaning fails, the fan must be cleaned directly. Place the speaker face down on a soft cloth. Use a Torx T15 screwdriver to remove all screws from the rear panel and carefully lift it off.
- Locate and Clean the Fan: You will see the cooling fan mounted internally. Use compressed air to thoroughly clean the fan blades and the surrounding heatsink. Hold the fan blades with a finger to prevent them from over-spinning.
- Check for Obstructions: While inside, carefully check if a wire or piece of debris has come loose and is physically hitting the fan blades as they spin. Secure any loose wires away from the fan.
- Diagnose a Bad Bearing: If the fan is clean and unobstructed but still makes a grinding or rattling noise, its internal bearing has failed. The fan unit must be replaced.
- Fan Replacement: Note the model number, size (e.g., 80mm), and voltage (e.g., 12V) printed on the fan. Order an exact replacement. The fan is removed by unplugging its small power connector from the circuit board and undoing its mounting screws.
- Reassemble and Test: After cleaning or replacing the fan, carefully reassemble the rear panel. Play music at a high volume to activate the fan and confirm that the abnormal noise is gone.