Has a PSU leak killed my GPU?
Has a PSU leak killed my GPU?
Sure, just isopropyl alcohol should suffice. You could remove the GPU to expose the bare PCB, clean everything properly, and let it dry before reassembly. From the images I saw online about PC cases and part placement, it seems unlikely the PSU is involved—its fan grille isn’t facing the GPU. The air cooler uses vapor chambers, but they don’t hold that much liquid.
Nerd noted that a basic heat pipe contains only about 0.1 grams of water—essentially just a few drops.
It's comforting to know that. Since the issue occurred after powering down, the GPU should be okay as long as it's properly cleaned, correct? Appreciate the assistance!
Typically yes. Ensure the PCB isn't severely corroded—likely not the case after the spill when power was off. A toothbrush works well for removing debris; use caution around the PCB. Isopropyl alcohol also helps clean these surfaces.
Isopropyl tends to evaporate rapidly once exposed to air, so even a 70% solution should dry within about 24 hours. For cleaning, I typically apply 85-95% concentration, which dries much faster. The main reason I choose to disassemble is just in case any residual liquid reaches the cooler, PCB, or components. A full 24-hour soak is acceptable if that’s your preference. Ports can be challenging, so I usually combine lint-free tissue soaked in Isopropyl with a toothpick or a cut alcohol swab. Care must be taken to avoid tearing any fibers inside the ports. The toothpick acts as an extension of my finger for reaching tight spaces. As @Average Nerd mentioned, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure is important—overhandling could dislodge delicate parts. Be mindful not to damage thermal pads excessively, as this makes future measurements harder or impossible. Different thermal pads exist across the GPU, so assume varying thicknesses and don’t assume uniformity.