Why Is My CPU Running So Hot?
Asked by
CoolGamer82
I've been using a Galahad 360 AIO cooler for about 5-6 years, and just recently I noticed my CPU light on the motherboard turned on while gaming. My CPU temperatures have been hitting the 80s and even reaching the low 90s, which seems way too high for my setup. I'm using an Intel Core i5-12600KF that's only about 2.5 years old. When idle, my temperatures stay between the upper 50s to mid-60s. I'm wondering if this might be an issue with my CPU cooler? I know that a power supply can also impact CPU temperatures, but I haven't experienced any crashes, BSOD, or other problems—just these high temps. I've already removed the pump and reapplied thermal paste, but the temperatures haven't improved. Any suggestions on how to diagnose this or what replacement parts I might need?
Answers
Have you redone the thermal paste recently? It's generally a good idea to refresh it every few years, especially with a cooler that's been running for over five years. Sometimes the paste can dry out and lose its effectiveness, leading to higher temps.
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Definitely check whether your pump is operating properly. You should feel some vibration from it under load, and there should be a noticeable temperature difference between the hoses. If the pump isn’t working efficiently, that could definitely cause your CPU to overheat.
ChillMaster7: I can feel the heat difference between the pipes and there’s a slight vibration from the pump. Could the age of the cooler be a problem?
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TechWhiz29: Yeah, I actually tried reapplying the thermal paste, but the high temperatures haven’t changed at all.