PR2100 Fan Not Working - How to Fix

The WD My Cloud Pro PR2100 is a robust and reliable NAS (Network Attached Storage) device, ideal for media professionals, small businesses, and home servers. One of its essential components is the cooling fan, which regulates internal temperatures and prevents hardware failures. When the PR2100 fan is not working, it can lead to overheating, reduced performance, or even long-term damage to drives and internal circuitry.

Let’s explore the possible causes of this issue, how to diagnose it properly, and the steps you can take to fix or mitigate the problem.

Common Reasons Why the PR2100 Fan Might Not Work

Firmware Glitch or Software Bug

Occasionally, a firmware update or system glitch may interfere with the NAS’s fan control logic, causing the fan to stop running even if internal temperatures rise.

Fan Threshold Behavior

The PR2100 fan is temperature-controlled, meaning it may not run at all when the NAS is idle or operating below 40°C. Users sometimes mistake this default behavior for a failure.

Hardware Failure

The fan motor or connector could be faulty, especially if the fan never spins up, even under load.

Dust or Debris

Accumulated dust can jam the fan blades or block air vents, limiting airflow and causing the fan to stop working.

Power Supply Problems

An unstable or insufficient power supply may prevent the fan from functioning correctly, particularly during boot or high-usage phases.

How to Check If the Fan Is Working

Use the WD Dashboard

Log in to the My Cloud PR2100 dashboard. Under System > Fan, check current speed or temperature. If temperatures are high (above 50°C) and fan speed remains at 0 RPM, it may indicate an issue.

Physical Inspection

Gently place your hand near the rear fan while the device is running. If you don’t feel any airflow after sustained usage, the fan is likely inactive.

Run a Stress Test

Copy large files or run multiple Plex streams to load the CPU. The fan should activate if the internal temperature rises. If it doesn’t, that's a red flag.

Fixes and Solutions

1. Restart the PR2100

Sometimes, a simple reboot can reset fan behavior if it’s tied to a temporary firmware bug.

2. Check and Update Firmware

Go to Settings > Firmware Update on the dashboard. Ensure you’re using the latest official version from Western Digital.

3. Clean the Fan and Vents

Turn off and unplug the NAS. Use compressed air to clean dust from the fan and air vents. Avoid touching internal parts.

4. Reset the PR2100

Perform a soft reset by holding the reset button for 4–5 seconds with the device powered on. This will not delete data but can clear minor configuration issues.

5. Replace the Fan (Advanced Users)

If the fan is confirmed dead, and the device is out of warranty, you may carefully open the enclosure and replace the fan (typically a 92mm 12V fan). Proceed only if you're comfortable with hardware repairs.

When to Contact WD Support

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, or if your PR2100 is still under warranty, contact WD customer support. They may authorize a replacement or walk you through advanced diagnostics.

Final Thoughts

A non-functional fan in your PR2100 NAS should not be ignored, especially if the device runs 24/7 or stores critical data. Whether it's a firmware hiccup or a hardware fault, acting early can prevent long-term damage. Monitor temperatures regularly and keep your device clean to ensure optimal performance and longevity.