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My iMac dates to late 2012. Lately the fan runs noticeably after the computer sleeps for a while or when I turn the machine off. It does not run noticeably when I am using it like now. I tried running the diagnostic test by turning the computer off, then on and pressing the d key. The icon did not come up. So I can't test it. For now when I am not operating the computer I unplug it to stop the fan from running Any advice?
The RAM door in a 27 inch 2012 iMac is on the case back behind the stand, not in the vent areas. A 21.5-inch 2012 iMac does not have a RAM door. If you are not sure of the screen size, do "About this Mac..." from your Apple menu to find your screen size under "Sub-model.":
The intake vents are along the bottom of edge of the case facing your desk surface.
Those need a check for dust/lint. Also make sure nothing is between the bottom edge of the case and the desk. The computer needs every bit of the 2.5 inches of clearance for effective cooling.
Overheating issues can be software-related. Please see this Apple article on using Activity Monitor:
See how apps affect Mac performance, battery runtime, temperature, and fan activity - Apple Support
Note that Step 1 is vitally important to getting useful results.
Activity Monitor's display is dynamic, changing every few seconds, so you need to watch the display for 20-30 seconds to see any potential suspects.
You don't need to open RAM door for PRAM reset, it can be done by restarting your Mac and holding command+option+P+R buttons at a time of restart. It is detailed in below link:
If it is a 27" please remove the RAM door and vacuum out any dust. Then reset the SMC 2-3 times with all external peripherals disconnected. Please click the following link for instructions SMC Reset
Thank you so much! My screen seems to be a 25”. But I may be able to figure out a different access to vacuum and reset as you advise with the help of my son-in-law who is much more knowledgeable than Luddite me! Can’t seem to find the door you describe. There is a small vent, you are most kind.
You measure diagonally from one corner to the next to get the size. If it is a 27" please look at this video to learn where the door is.
https://eshop.macsales.com/installvideos/imac-27-inch-5k-2019-memory/iMac19-1/ this video is the same for 2012 - 2019 27" iMacs.
I found this advice helpful. I cleaned the vents best I could, then recycled SMC three times. I am not sure yet this has done any good. But we'll see. I checked the cpu's using the activity monitor. An app called photoanalysisd came up once at 95 percent! It has not come up again though I keep watching the activity monitor. I believe it has to do with my photos, but I haven't imported anything lately. I probably can't eliminate it can I? No other cpu readings are high at all. Thank you so very much for your advice.
Also try PRAM reset, it might help.
My screen is 21.5. No RAM door. Others giving me helpful feedback as you have. Thanks!
Fan runs oddly
