Damage from water to the CPU
Damage from water to the CPU
You were thinking it was fine to clean your CPU with water before selling it, but now you're unsure. It seems some people believe you can't wash a CPU after use, even if it looks okay. Your concern about its functionality is valid—checking for signs of damage like bent pins or corrosion is important before deciding to sell.
As long as no water seeps beneath the IHS and stays trapped, everything should be okay. A CPU is made from metal, silicon, fiberglass, and gold—materials that resist short-term moisture, especially when not in use. It functions more like a small piece of jewelry than a functional component.
It's important to remove the device completely. The goal is to verify oxidation, not moisture at this stage. Just to confirm, were you submerging the CPU in water or using a damp cloth to clean the IHS?
If it's been a year and you haven't used it, try plugging it in and check how it performs—it should work. Edit: Possibly.