Check if your CPU is functioning normally. If it's not responding or behaving oddly, cooling might be the issue.
Check if your CPU is functioning normally. If it's not responding or behaving oddly, cooling might be the issue.
Over the last month, my system has been struggling with poor performance. I suspect the high CPU temperatures—often exceeding 90°C on my desktop—might be the main cause. After resetting the PC, scanning for malware, cleaning dust, servicing the AIO water cooling, and replacing the coolant, I still face overheating issues. Now that I've applied fresh thermal paste and reinstalled the cooler, the problem has worsened. Could anyone suggest other possible causes besides CPU damage?
Consider documenting your system requirements too. Some processors generate more heat than others.
I took apart everything and removed all the water (it was really dirty inside, so I cleaned it out) and switched it to tap water. Although it isn’t as pure as distilled water, I didn’t have any alternatives and checked online—no one suggested tap water would be bad. It also sounds better, with a noticeable rush of water through the pipes and a solid feel when you touch them. It seems to be working much better now.
It should not have been necessary for any debris or residue in that loop initially. This suggests significant corrosion, possibly in the radiator or cold plate. Have you inspected the cold plate for visible issues or buildup on the fins? Tap water can help temporarily, but since most AIOs use aluminum radiators with copper cold plates, you're now facing a situation where galvanic corrosion will likely ruin the unit. TL;DR: replace the cooler, ideally with an air-cooled one.
Water cooling presents quite a challenge. The cold plate had some debris on it, but I cleaned it thoroughly. It’s just a small copper plate, and the only noticeable damage are minor scratches that aren’t significant. Also, appreciate the tips on preventing corrosion! My biggest worry now is that my CPU has been severely affected by heat—possibly operating at around 90°C for a month before I noticed the issue. I stopped using it right away. Hopefully everything’s okay. Thanks!