How to Change the Thermal Paste on a CPU

Thermal paste, sometimes known as thermal compound, thermal grease, or heat sink compound, is a substance used to improve heat transfer efficiency between a CPU and a cooler. Over time, the effectiveness of this thermal paste may decline, resulting in the CPU overheating. The solution? Learning how to change the thermal paste on a CPU effectively and efficiently. This article will guide you through the necessary steps.

When your computer starts to overheat regularly or shuts down without a warning, or when you are refurbishing an old computer, changing the thermal paste on your CPU should be one of the most critical tasks on your To-Do List. Changing your thermal paste not only increases CPU performance and lifespan but also improves the overall functionality of your computer.

Before starting the process, there are three critical points you need to know about thermal paste. Firstly, less is more - using a little thermal paste is often more effective as it allows the heat to be transferred directly to the heat sink and cooled from the CPU core. Using too much paste might prevent this cooling from taking place. Secondly, you must know when to change your thermal paste. Old or ineffective thermal paste will look dry, flaky, and discolored. And lastly, always ensure to clean the old paste before applying new paste.

Materials You Need

When changing your thermal paste, there are specific tools you will require. These include:

- A working space: For efficiency, create a clean and well-lit workspace. Be prepared to handle tiny screws and delicate parts of your CPU.

- Thermal Paste: Choose high-quality thermal paste. Some recommended options include Arctic MX-4, Noctua NT-H1, and CoolerMaster Mastergel Maker.

- Scraping tool: To remove the old thermal paste, you’ll need a plastic scraper or an old credit card.

- Cleaning solution: Isopropyl Alcohol (90%+) is perfect for cleaning up old thermal paste. If it’s unavailable, a cleaning kit like ArctiClean will still do.

- Anti-static wrist strap: This is optional, but it’s necessary if your working area has carpeting or lots of fabric that can generate static electricity.

- Paper Towels or Microfiber cloth: This is necessary for the clean-up process.

Procedure

Step 1: Safety First
Unplug the power cord from your desktop PC and ground yourself by touching the metal casing of the power supply unit.

Step 2: Open up Your CPU and Apply the Cleaning Solution
Remove the side panel of your CPU case to expose the motherboard. Next, apply a few drops of your cleaning solution onto a cloth or paper towel and clean the CPU cooler's base.

Step 3: Remove the Old Thermal Paste
After the cleaning solution has done its trick, use the plastic tool (or old credit card) to scrape off the old thermal paste.

Step 4: Clean-up after Scraping
Use a dry microfiber cloth or paper towel to clean up the area after scrapping.

Step 5: Apply the New Thermal Paste
Apply a small amount of your thermal paste to the center of the CPU.

Step 6: Spreading the Thermal Paste
Use the plastic or your finger in a plastic bag to spread the paste evenly across the CPU surface.

Step 7: Reassemble
After the thermal paste has been spread successfully, replace the cooler, reassemble the CPU, reconnect your power supply, and turn on your PC.

By following these steps, you can successfully change the thermal paste on your CPU. Remember, a well-maintained CPU contributes to a well-performing and long-lasting computer.