Do I need to periodically replace my CPU Cooler?

hdinfinity

Honorable
Dec 23, 2012
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0
10,520
I got my computer 5 years ago, and use it for gaming every once in a while. I currently have a Corsair H50 cooling my CPU. I went to my local microcenter looking at hardware and one of the employees there told me I should replace my CPU Cooler every few years. Is this true or is he just trying to make a sale?
 
Solution
Dear this is a debate. Anyhow, problem with liquid coolers and particularly all in one liquid coolers is that they wear out and we simply can't change their parts like tubes which is very much possible in custom loops otherwise.

Air Coolers last longer than the liquid coolers. Only problem with them is their fans stop working or something like that but guess what you can easily change the fans. No Issue.

Thermal paste can be changed after a while.

If you are getting normal temps with your current configuration then don't upgrade it but you may consider changing the thermal paste.

Regards,

Jak_Sparra

Distinguished
Mar 31, 2006
519
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19,060
You should not have to replace it until it breaks. You can use various free software and hardware to monitor your CPU temp, I check it once every 6 months or so just to make sure it seems the same as normal (give or take a few degrees). If you notice any problems then you may need to clean the fan as they collect dust which can eventually effect performance. The H50 uses a mixture if distilled water and propylene glycol in a sealed system which helps eliminate corrosion and growth of microbes. If your unit starts making a different noise or performing poorly after cleaning dust from the fan then consider replacing it.

Also having used water cooling in the past I have found that a good air cooling system is almost as good or better as a cheap water cooling setup for moderate overclocking.

 
Dear this is a debate. Anyhow, problem with liquid coolers and particularly all in one liquid coolers is that they wear out and we simply can't change their parts like tubes which is very much possible in custom loops otherwise.

Air Coolers last longer than the liquid coolers. Only problem with them is their fans stop working or something like that but guess what you can easily change the fans. No Issue.

Thermal paste can be changed after a while.

If you are getting normal temps with your current configuration then don't upgrade it but you may consider changing the thermal paste.

Regards,
 
Solution