CPU overheating issue resolved with cooler installation
CPU overheating issue resolved with cooler installation
Hi there! Last year I assembled my new PC and for months it operated smoothly. But in December the CPU started heating up noticeably, moving from around 70°C to now exceeding 80°C. I really don’t want my machine running with the fans at full speed because it bothers me and makes my tinnitus worse. I’m eager to fix this soon! My setup includes an Intel i7-10700K, a Lian Li Galahad 360 AIO cooler, and an Asus ROG STRIX Z590-A motherboard. I’ve tried cleaning dust from the PC, reseating the cooler multiple times, switching thermal paste, updating BIOS, and checking for unusual loads. Sometimes reseating the cooler helps for a short time. From what I’ve found, adjusting the CPU voltage in BIOS is another option, but I’m not confident and don’t want to risk instability. Please assist! PS: I hope my approach matches forum guidelines and that someone else hasn’t already solved this. Usually I wait a bit longer on forums before posting, but I’m running out of time.
I own a Strix Z590-A. By default, Asus configures it to eliminate all restrictions on the CPU power limits and simply supplies voltage like a hungry cat. If your Galahad configuration performs optimally, continue reading: When I first installed my 11700K (and even with the earlier 10600K), the board was delivering 1.55-1.6V under load and pushing 270W regardless of the situation. I use a triple rad custom loop, which found it difficult to manage that consistent strain. Eventually, I had to adjust manually, though this process requires patience. If you haven’t done so yet, enter your BIOS and adjust settings such as the ASUS MultiCore Enhancement and AI Overclock Tuner to Intel defaults. By default, the board runs Turbo for extended periods instead of staying within normal limits. Over time, it will adapt to your cooler setup and gradually reduce voltages as the system runs. For a temporary solution with minimal performance hit—meaning you’ll stick to stock settings without major loss—it’s best to disable the AI Enhancements and Asus Auto tuning. Also, the reason it worked well initially was likely because it was learning to match your cooler’s capabilities, and it doesn’t have strict upper bounds on its output.
I enjoy making adjustments frequently. I've refined my water loop multiple times recently to ensure this 11700K is both comfortable and functional. Plus, I dedicated a few hours adjusting BIOS settings. Doing this helps others avoid the same issues and saves them time.