Hey everyone! I'm planning to switch from a tower cooler to an AIO cooler for my PC mainly for aesthetics and easier maintenance. I have a Corsair Carbide Series 275R case, but I've run into some challenges. The case doesn't have any bottom intakes aside from a small vent for the PSU, I can't fit 140mm fans at the top, and the maximum radiator size I can mount up there is 240mm. My RAM is quite tall, making it tough to install fans in the front, and attempting to mount an AIO on top seems impossible without changing the RAM heatsink, which I'm not keen on doing right now.
So, that leaves me with mounting the AIO at the front, but I'm torn on whether to set it up as an intake or exhaust. While I know an intake might raise the internal temps slightly (since I have a Zen 3 5800X3D which, although not super hot, could increase ambient temps), using it as an exhaust seems more natural. However, I'm worried about how this would mess with airflow around the GPU, especially since it vents straight up. The front panel of my case is solid with narrow slits on the sides, which doesn't seem ideal for airflow either. I really want to avoid getting a new case unless absolutely necessary, so any advice you all have would be greatly appreciated!
1 Answer
In your setup, I'd recommend using the AIO in the front as an intake. Even though it might seem counterintuitive to add heat to the case, the AIO can help circulate air more effectively, especially if you have a solid panel with minimal openings. By going with the AIO as an intake, you'll boost overall airflow compared to just using your existing single front fan. Plus, if you mount a quality AIO like a 240mm or 360mm model, you might even see better temps than before.
Are you saying that going 240mm might actually lower the overall temps? I'm curious how much difference I would see compared to just one front fan.