What are the common mistakes and risks of applying thermal paste incorrectly?

1 Too much or too little paste

One of the most common mistakes is using too much or too little thermal paste. Too much paste can spill over the edges of the CPU and create a mess, or interfere with the contact between the CPU and the heatsink. Too little paste can leave gaps and create air bubbles, which reduce the heat transfer and increase the temperature. The ideal amount of paste is about the size of a pea or a grain of rice, depending on the CPU size and shape.

2 Wrong application method

Another common mistake is using the wrong application method for your thermal paste. There are different methods, such as spreading, dotting, or lining, that suit different types of CPUs and pastes. For example, spreading the paste evenly over the entire surface of the CPU can work well for flat and large CPUs, but not for convex or small ones. Dotting the paste in the center or in a cross pattern can work well for convex or small CPUs, but not for flat or large ones. Lining the paste along the length of the CPU can work well for rectangular CPUs, but not for square ones. You should research the best method for your CPU and paste before applying it.

3 Improper cleaning and preparation

Before applying thermal paste, you should always clean and prepare the surfaces of the CPU and the heatsink. Improper cleaning and preparation can result in dust, dirt, or old paste residues that affect the heat transfer and the adhesion of the new paste. You should use a soft cloth or a lint-free paper towel and a suitable solvent, such as isopropyl alcohol, to gently wipe away any impurities. You should also avoid touching the surfaces with your fingers, as they can leave oils and fingerprints that reduce the effectiveness of the paste.

4 Wrong type or quality of paste

Not all thermal pastes are created equal. Using the wrong type or quality of paste can have a negative impact on your CPU cooling and performance. There are different types of pastes, such as metal-based, ceramic-based, or silicone-based, that have different properties, such as conductivity, viscosity, or longevity. You should choose a paste that matches your CPU and heatsink specifications, as well as your budget and preferences. You should also avoid using cheap or expired pastes, as they can degrade over time and lose their thermal properties.

5 Poor installation of heatsink

After applying thermal paste, you should install the heatsink carefully and securely. Poor installation of heatsink can cause air gaps, uneven pressure, or misalignment, which can reduce the heat transfer and damage the CPU or the motherboard. You should align the heatsink with the CPU and gently lower it down, without twisting or sliding it. You should also tighten the screws or clips evenly and firmly, without over-tightening or under-tightening them. You should also check the fan and the power cable connections, and make sure they are working properly.

6 Lack of maintenance and monitoring

Finally, you should not neglect the maintenance and monitoring of your CPU and thermal paste. Lack of maintenance and monitoring can lead to accumulation of dust, deterioration of paste, or changes in temperature, which can affect your CPU cooling and performance. You should regularly clean your case and fan, and replace your thermal paste every few years or when you notice signs of degradation, such as cracking, drying, or hardening. You should also monitor your CPU temperature and fan speed, using software tools or hardware sensors, and adjust your settings or troubleshoot any issues if needed.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?