Hey everyone! I've got an i9-10900K that's been running since 2020 on an MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi motherboard. I'm facing a major overheating issue with my setup, which includes a 240 mm AiO cooler (I think it's an Alphacool that came with an Aldi prebuilt). The core of the problem is that during Cinebench 2024 Multi, my CPU temperature spikes to 100 °C within about 10 seconds, leading to thermal throttling. I've checked that the radiator fans are connected correctly and ramping up to 100% at around 1300 RPM, and the pump seems to be running at 100% too, at about 2600 RPM. Despite this, the CPU hits 100 °C almost immediately, scoring only about 719 points in the benchmark—I should be seeing around 900. When idle, it's sitting at around 50 °C.
Here's what I've already tried: tweaking the BIOS pump and fan curves, and ensuring the radiator is getting fresh air from the side intake. Now, I'm considering a few next steps:
1. Replacing the thermal paste since I haven't changed it since 2020.
2. Swapping out the radiator fans for more powerful ones.
3. If the AiO is failing, possibly replacing it, although I don't have space for a 360 mm unit.
So, my main question is: with a 240 mm cooling solution, can I realistically keep my 10900K under 90 °C during heavy load if I upgrade to a stronger AiO with new thermal paste and high-pressure fans? Or is that just not feasible with a 240 mm setup? Thanks for any advice!
5 Answers
If you're adamant about keeping the AiO, definitely replace that thermal paste. But you might still struggle with a 240 mm cooler under heavy loads like what you're describing. Just keep an eye on temps when doing regular tasks vs. benchmarks.
Honestly, it’s pretty common for AIOs to fail after a few years. I’d consider switching to a high-performance air cooler instead. Something like the NH-D15 with some great thermal paste can make a massive difference. It’s a one-time investment that pays off in the long run!
Definitely test that pump first! If you can, try going air-cooled altogether. They often offer better longevity and reliability compared to AIOs, especially when pumps are known to fail.
It sounds like your AiO pump might have failed. From experience, pumps can die around that 5-year mark. Even if it sounds like it's running, if water isn’t circulating, you're out of luck. Check the tubes—if they feel cold and the CPU block is silent, that's a big red flag.
For those synthetic benchmarks, the temps you’re seeing aren’t unusual. But, what's your daily usage look like? Are you hitting those 100 °C in regular tasks, or just during the benchmarks? That’s the key here.
100% agree with you! My old pump failed after about five years too, and it looked like it was working but clearly wasn’t pushing water anymore.