I've been experiencing some troubling shut downs and restarts with my computer lately. Initially, I suspected a memory issue, but after running Memtest, it came back clean. A friend suggested using Intel Extreme Tuning Utility to monitor the CPU, and I found out that both EDP Limit and Thermal Throttling were active. EDP seems to be permanently active, while throttling happens occasionally. My event viewer keeps throwing a Critical Kernel Power error.
My system is only about a year old, and I bought it pre-built since I didn't have time to build my own due to work with modeling commissions. Most components are from Lian Li, including the AIO cooler, case fans, and PSU. The case itself gets really hot, and I'm concerned that the AIO isn't working properly or that the fans just aren't sufficient. I've done some cleaning, but that didn't help much either.
I'm looking for suggestions on what might be causing these overheating issues. Sorry if I picked the wrong topic for this post—I was uncertain if it was more of a discussion or troubleshooting case.
3 Answers
It sounds like your pre-built might have poor thermal paste application. It could really help to repaste your CPU and make sure all your fans are correctly oriented for proper airflow. A well-applied thermal paste can make a huge difference; my PC has been running fine for 13 years with just a repaste a couple of weeks after building it due to other issues. Also, double-check your Windows power settings to make sure they're not limiting performance with eco modes.
To get better help, it would be great if you could list all your parts and share some photos of your PC. Showing GPU and CPU temps under load can really help diagnose overheating issues more accurately.
Do you know what type of case you have? Sometimes pre-built PCs have flashy cases that actually restrict airflow. There are some layouts that are recommended, but it’s often a good idea to experiment a bit. Also, there's a possibility of bad or misapplied thermal paste even in good brands like Lian Li. Make sure the CPU pump is functioning well, and remember, the case exhaust should feel noticeably warmer than the outside temp.
I hadn’t thought about the thermal paste. I’ll look into getting some good paste on Amazon and try that!