5 Essential Facts About
Applying Thermal Grease

The application of thermal grease between a CPU and its cooler is an important step in installing a CPU. I know this process intimidates many beginners, but it is really simple.

Here are some important facts you need to know about applying thermal grease. Thermal grease application has long been the domain of hardcore computer enthusiasts. Recently, as more people build their own computers, it is becoming more commonplace. The grease helps in the cooling of the CPU and allows the chip to perform at faster speeds without burning up. It is useful especially for those interested in overclocking their CPUs or wanting to extract every ounce of performance from their machines.

Applying thermal grease is important for cooling a CPU

 

1. Why Use Thermal Grease?

Do you know why we need to use thermal grease when installing CPUs on a motherboard? Well, the reason is simple. Most CPUs come with a cooler. The contact between the CPU and the cooler is not perfect. Hence, thermal grease needs to be applied to close off the contact between the CPU and the cooler.
 

2. Found in Many Kinds Of Packages

Thermal grease is available in many different forms. Its price can range from a cheap $2 to over $30. It all depends on the brand and quality of grease you're looking for. Usually, I'd go for a $10 or so grease when building my own computers.
 

3. Remove Original Thermal Grease

One of the most important steps to remember when applying thermal grease between your CPU and its cooler is to remove the original thermal grease. You see, the original CPU packaging may already come with some thermal grease on them. Make sure you remove it before you apply any new thermal grease.
 

4. Common Mistakes

There are 2 common mistakes I can think of when applying thermal grease. One of them is to apply too much. Using too much thermal grease endangers your system because it could leak out to other components and causes short circuits on the motherboard.

The other common mistake concerns processors with seals on them. When you buy a CPU, please make sure that there's no seal on it. Otherwise, when applying thermal grease, you will have a lot of difficulty.
 

5. Where to Buy Thermal Grease

A great place to buy thermal grease is a computer hardware shop. A good online retailer like TigerDirect.com will also provide you with a variety of cooling products and grease you need for setting up that PC.
 

Conclusion

I hope this article has taught you something about how you can apply thermal grease onto your CPU. Remember, while thermal grease is important, you shouldn't overuse it - otherwise your system may be endangered.

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