Why has everyone jumped to the idea its a HDD issue? this may not be
the HDD causing the issue!. It is more likely that heat sink fan has
become clogged full of dust and grim. If you feel comfortable with
opening the case then give it a good clean, below are some brief
instructions:

Here is a small list of supplies that you should have handy before
cleaning:
  # Anti-Static Wrist Guard
  # Compressed Air

1) Turn off your computer.
2) Remove the side cover of the computer case, exposing the
motherboard and other hardware components.
3) Inspect all cables and connections. Be sure to look for cables that
are frayed, loose, pinched, snug or otherwise damaged. If you come
across any cables that are damaged in any way or form you should
immediately replace them. If a cable is frayed do not attempt to patch
it up with electrical tape, this is very dangerous fix. We also advise
that you replace snug cables with longer ones before it accidentally
snaps.
4) Now its time to get out the compressed air. Shoot the canned air at
everything in your computer. Pay special attention to the heat sink
and fan on top of your processor. This area collects a lot of dust.
Some other areas to focus on are add-on cards (audio/video/modem),
case fans, hard disks, power supply and removable media drives (cd-
rom). A vacuum may help suck out the dust while you knock it loose
with the compressed air. Caution: Follow the directions on the back of
compressed air! Do not spray hardware at close range! If you choose to
use a vacuum, do not attempt to vacuum anything in your computer!!!
5) If you notice dust in the PCI and AGP slots of your motherboard it
may be wise to remove each add-on card and shoot some compressed air
into the slots to break away the dust.
6) If your case has an air filter remove it and run it through warm
water to remove the dust. To dry it simply use a cloth (lint-free if
possible) and gently dab away the excess water. Place the filter back
into the case.
7) Replace the side cover of the computer, but check first that there
aren't any cables that are lying next to any fans. Fasten the cover
and restore the power.

In case its need or helpful here is the documentation for the Dell
5150

http://support.euro.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim5150/en/sm/parts1.htm#wp1373147

failing that try to identify which part is making the noise, fans
supplied by dell are not the best in the world and you maybe worth
replacing the components!. Please note never to do anything you are
uncomfortable with or unsure then always seek the advise of Computer
shops or friend who is experienced in computing.

Good Luck and hope that fixes the problem for you :)

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