Cleaning CPU Coolers

genestealer

Distinguished
May 12, 2007
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Hello all, :D

Would anyone of you fine persons have some experience cleaning a Zalman CPU cooler model number, CNPS7700-Cu Copper.(or something similiar)

I had an unfortunate 'high humidity/dust content syndrome' in my apartment last year and wish to find a safe way to remove the build up
on this cooler so that it may still service my P4 2.8 prescott build.

I'm looking to dip the heatsink in some sort of safe solution to remove a grimy build up of very fine dust. Any direction would be greatly appreciated.
 

babaghan

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Apr 2, 2007
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I wonder if a vacuum cleaner with that little brush attachment would work? I wouldn't do it with the cooler attached to the CPU, of course. Fear of static electricty you know.
 

apt403

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Oct 14, 2006
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Canned air + rubbing alcohol + rag. Seriously, it works.

If you're really set on washing it, use water. As long as the thing is 100% dry before you plug it in, you'll be fine. I've seen people wash mobos in their bath tubs, usually to clean off/out dielectic grease used in sub-ambient cooling. The boards worked fine afterwards.