Watercooling my pc. Talk me into it/ out of it.

bigbasedrum · Nov 9, 2013

Hey guys.

I live in a rather hot place and the two graphics cards so close to each other become rather hot and make a hell of a noise. So I started thinking about watercooling my pc. However, I'm on the fence a bit, mainly for the following reasons:
1) I move my pc around a lot. This involves a 300 KM journey by car at least 4 times a year.
2) Is it really worth it?
3) Risk.
4) I'm unsure of the maintenance requirements.

So basically the first two ones are the most important. I would appreciate it if you guys could give me advice concerning them.

Further, if you do recommend I go liquid, please comment on the following kit:
XSPC Raystorm CPU waterblock
1 x XSPC EX 240 dual fan radiator
1 x XSPC EX 120 radiator
1 x ICS Mini-Flange Reservoir (black)
http://titan-ice.co.za/ics-mini-flange-reservoir-black.html
1 x ICS TS5 690 pump
http://titan-ice.co.za/ics-ts5-690-pump.html
1 x 3.0 m 3/4" OD 1/2" ID Flexible tubing (clear)
4 x Alphacool Hose clamp spring
http://titan-ice.co.za/alphacool-hose-clamp-spring-17-19mm-black.html
12 x XSPC G1/4 1/2" ID 3/4" OD compression fitting
http://titan-ice.co.za/xspc-g1-4-to-1-2-id-3-4-od-fitting.html
750 ml De-mineralized water
Zalman G200 coolant
2 x EK-FC 7870 Acetal+Nickel waterblocks.

Many thanks!

Edit: Sorry forgot PC specs.
Processor: Intel Core i5-3550 @ 3.9 GHz
Graphics: 2 x Radeon HD 7870's @ 1050 MHz
RAM: 8 GB Kingston @ 1600 MHz
Mobo: Asus P8Z77-V Pro
Case: NZXT Phantom
PSU: Corsair HX-750
Cooling: Noctua NH-D14

robax91 · Nov 9, 2013

I know a ton of people would pick actual water cooling over closed loops... but... If you want something durable for a more mobile desktop, maybe you should get a closed loop for you CPU and a hybrid loop for each of your GPUs.

CPU:
CORSAIR Hydro Series H75 $85

GPUs:
Accelero Hybrid 7870 Loop $130 per unit ($260)

Total CPU/2xGPU: $345

Benefits of a closed loop:
1. Closed (aka you don't need to ever fill or replace the liquid)
2. Very durable for mobility
3. A lot easier for less hassle (and smaller learning curve)
4. Universal (Fits other CPUs/cards so when you upgrade, you aren't stuck with water-blocks that only fit one model.

The only other thing to note is to make sure you have:
1. Enough space in your case for 3 radiators (they are 120mm and as thick as 2 case fans when installed because they have a fan attached)
2. High quality fans (the stock ones are alright, but aftermarket high performance/high CFM fans make them run even cooler)
3. Enough 120mm fan mounts on your case, each one needs it's own.
4. A separate exhaust fan as radiators are recommended to pull outer air in rather than use warm in-case air

May not be the best option, but it's easier and safer.

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Watercooling my pc. Talk me into it/ out of it.

bigbasedrum

Honorable

robax91

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