We will focus on the processor, because it does not affect the system warranty if we assemble it in parts. This can be applied to the graphics card, but remember that removing the heatsink voids the two-year warranty. If this period has passed, you can perform a full system teardown without problems.
There are various considerations to take into account.
There are no exact data, but is based on estimates and, above all, on the use of the system. Depending on the thermal paste used, the environmental conditions and the use, the duration is more or less long. Also, if we have animals at home (dogs or cats), this is another relevant factor to take into account. Even if we live in a more rural or windy area, we may have other needs
According to the requirements of each user, the maintenance times can vary significantly. The usual thing is that full system maintenance is carried out annually, preferably in autumn-winter.
First, let’s see how often should we clean the system under different conditions:
- Furry animals: If we have dogs or cats (or other furry animals), it is recommended to clean the system every 4 to 6 months, approximately
- Rural or windy areas: generally the amount of dust is greater, so it is advisable to clean every 6 months, more or less
- Cities, in general: They are usually not that problematic and can be once a year
Ok, now let’s see how often we have to change the thermal paste:
- Intensive use: When we use our computer, mainly, for heavy duty such as gaming, editing or similar, we have to change the thermal paste every 12 months. This is because thermal paste experiences high thermal stress and this affects its proper functioning, so to speak.
- Low load: those who use their equipment for general tasks such as navigation, multimedia, work, should have no problems either. Without problem we can keep it between 16-24 months
- Hot or very hot areas: It assumes that the core temperature is higher and the operating temperature will be higher than usual. It generates a loss of properties and therefore it will no longer do its job as well
- Cold areas: We can lengthen the time between thermal paste changes a bit. We can leave, in this case at 16-24 months
How to change the thermal paste?
Now we know more or less clearly how often to do interview to our team and the change the thermal paste. It’s time to see how to change the thermal paste and, more precisely, how this process should be carried out. Th is is not very complicated, but in no case should it be done to ensure the correct removal of this element.
Obviously, to remove the thermal paste, you have to remove the CPU heatsink. This process is very simple, just loosen the screws that secure it to the motherboard. We have now exposed the thermal paste on the CPU and on the heatsink base.
To remove thermal paste, two items are recommended. The first option is to use isopropyl alcohol and a piece of paper, either toilet paper or towels. Another more “modern” option is the specific wipes sold by various manufacturers.
Our proposal for isopropyl alcohol is this 1 liter EQM solution which costs 9.26 dollars
Regarding the wipes to clean the thermal paste, we have three options here:
If you need thermal paste, here are our three recommendations:
