How long does thermal paste last once applied?

Most value options are good for two to three years, while higher-end compounds can go up to seven years. Replacing it every two to three years is a good idea and will keep your chip at its optimum.

Can you apply too much thermal paste?

When you apply too much thermal paste, it can act like an insulator. At best case, this may make the paste ineffective, and at worst case, you may damage components via overheating. Remember, the entire point of the thermal paste is to fill in the tiny gaps between the two components.

Is thermal paste always needed?

EucleX, your new CPU will come with a CPU cooler included. This cooler will have a square of heat transfer material on the base. If you are using this cooler, you do not need any other thermal paste. This is different to the discussion above about not using any heat transfer material at all, which would be unwise.

Can you just wipe off thermal paste?

Using an isopropyl alcohol wipe, gently wipe the thermal paste off the surface. Wipe in a straight line. Repeat this process until the thermal paste is gone, using a new wipe each time. Leave it to dry for around an hour.

How long should thermal paste sit?

Honorable. It takes 1 week or 2 to cure, but it will only drop your temps about 1-3 degrees.

How often should you replace thermal paste on CPU?

A nifty guide to thermal paste removal and replacement. This guide suggests replacing thermal paste every 6-12 months.

Do you need to re apply thermal paste?

In most cases, you shouldn’t need to reapply more than once every few years, though you should replace your paste if you remove your cooler for any reason. You may also want to consider reapplying thermal paste if you find your CPU temperatures are climbing. If in doubt, consult the thermal paste manufacturer, and follow their recommendations.

Is it important to use thermal paste?

Not only is it extremely important to apply thermal paste but it is also important that good quality thermal paste is chosen. Thermal paste ensures that there is proper conduction of heat from the CPU to the cooling system, which an air gap cannot fulfill.

How often do you change your CPU thermal paste?

Normal mode is the replacement of thermal paste once every six months to a year. This is provided that the temperature of the chip does not constantly reach a critical point. If the temperature is stably high (which is undesirable), then it will be necessary to change the thermal paste often – once every couple of months.