Did you know that hundreds of thousands of hard drives fail to complete functions every year? 

In today’s world, when we use computers daily, hard drive failure is an inevitable problem. Whether due to software corruption, human error, or for some other reasons, when a hard drive failure happens, users lose essential data, which makes the problem even bigger. 

Although you can get a new hard disk, it will not recover your old data. Luckily, there are other solutions to help with this problem.

Keep reading to familiarize yourself with some common reasons your hard drive may fail and see effective data recovery solutions. 

6 Common Reasons for Hard Drive Failure 

A hard drive is a disk device that stores a large amount of data, from documents to images, videos, and other essential information. It operates as a storage media device for computers (laptops and tablets) and stores your data, even when the system is off. 

There are a few possible reasons that may cause your hard drive to stop working. 

1. Power Failure 

A sudden power failure can cause severe damage to your computer’s hard disk and result in data collapse. Most of the time, high or low power supply is the reason why your system turns off. After a power surge or outage, the system doesn’t have enough power to run and can start to malfunction.

The common symptoms of power failure are:

  • Your computer turns off without any warning 
  • The hard drive fails to spin 
  • The system fails to detect your hard disk drive

To avoid power failure, ensure there is no disruption between the main power supply and your computer. Also, use a UPS device that provides a power backup in the situation of unexpected power loss.

To recover your data in case of unexpected power failure, consult with a professional data recovery company. You may be able to repair your wiring or transfer the data to a new drive.

2. Hard Disk Overheating 

For desktop computers and laptops with poor ventilation, overheating is a large concern. Overheating in your device is one of the main reasons behind hard disk collapse. 

A low-quality cabinet box, improper maintenance, and overuse may cause your system to overheat. In some cases, a higher than expected power supply can also cause hard disk overheating. 

The common symptoms of hard disk overheating are:

  • Clicking sounds coming from your hardware
  • Fans are moving slowly or not moving at all
  • Your PC or laptop starts overheating as soon as you turn it on
  • Your computer is hot to the touch

If you notice some of these symptoms, overheating is likely the reason behind your hard disk breakdown. In this case, you need to check the CPU fans and vent ports. If you don’t see anything, you may need to disassemble the computer and clean the fans to avoid overheating. 

3. Mechanical Failure 

Mechanical failure happens when something breaks inside the hard drive. There are many small, complex components, and the drive will malfunction if just one breaks. 

After years of heavy use, hard disks lose their functionality, which may cause fundamental problems for your system. If you’ve formatted the hard disk more than it’s supposed to, your disk is in danger. 

The common symptoms of mechanical failure are:

  • Disk heads are not moving 
  • Spindle motor stops turning 
  • PCB (Printed Control Board) is not working 

To avoid mechanical failure, update your system regularly. It is also important to use an anti-virus tool to scan your computer for bugs and viruses. Replace your hard disk every two-three years, especially if you use your computer daily. 

4. Manufacturer’s Fault 

Let’s imagine you just purchased a new hard disk from a reputable manufacturer. After a few days, your device starts to make strange noises, and your hard disk suddenly stops working. It sounds unusual, but it is a common problem among users. 

This error often occurs because vendors deliver hard disks that did not undergo enough testing. The hardware might appear to be in working order, but it likely has an unknown issue that will affect your system.

If your hard disk collapses due to a manufacturer’s defect, you must contact the company for hard disk replacement. If you bought it recently or find the problem to be common for other users, the manufacturer should cover the replacement costs.

5. Invalid Data

Your system might fail to read your data for a few reasons, such as the use of freeware or malware programs, software bugs, and virus infection. Essentially, something changes in your system that makes your hard disk unstable and unable to read data. 

The common symptoms of invalid data are:

  • You can’t access your files
  • The system can’t boot 

A system restore or virus scan can sometimes fix this issue. Otherwise, you may need professional help.

6. Human Errors

A small mistake may cause serious damage to the system, including the hard drive. Modification of the files, system overuse, or unauthorized access can make your hard drive faulty. 

You can prevent such errors by avoiding unwanted or unnecessary modification and not allowing other people to use your computer. Also, try not to format the hard disk more than the recommended limit.

Your Hard Disk Already Failed? Here is How to Recover Your Data 

If you’ve followed the rules and stuck to regular computer maintenance, but your hard disk has still failed you, do not worry. Even if the situation seems desperate, there are software tools and solutions that can help you solve the problem and recover your data. 

When DIY data recovery efforts fail to help, you should consider a professional solution. Data recovery companies like Recovered based in Melbourne, Australia utlize the latest techniques with the best equipment available to recover lost data from almost any storage device such as failed hard drives, solid state drives, phones and USBs.

Whether it is a natural cause, failed hardware, or power failure, a professional can help you to recover your valuable information and rely upon your device.