Intel Core i7 9700K runs smoothly even when idle at high temperatures.
Intel Core i7 9700K runs smoothly even when idle at high temperatures.
BIOS update: American Megatrends Inc. 2.80 CPU : Intel® Core i7-9700K CPU @ 3.60GHz RAM : 16GB GPU : NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 16GB OS : Windows 10 Home 64 bit 21H2 OS build : 19044.1706 Recently, my PC has been operating at core temperatures near 80-90°C even when idle. This machine is an iBUYPOWER prebuilt model from 2019 and uses an AIO cooler (the exact model isn’t clear). Despite thorough cleaning of dust from fans, components, and panels, core temps stay elevated and the fan runs continuously at full or near full speed. Previously, it was quieter and only warmed up during demanding games like Metro Exodus. After initial cleaning, temps dropped to about 40-50°C for a short time before rising again. The fan operates normally with adequate airflow, and cooler fans seem to function properly as water circulation is noticeable. I also verified the pump RPM in BIOS, which was around 4000. I’m unfamiliar with hardware maintenance, so I’m unsure whether thermal paste needs reapplication or if the cooler requires cleaning/replacement. I haven’t attempted overclocking, and my PC has never stopped unexpectedly, so I don’t think overheating is a concern.
I think your AIO pump might be dead, but an RPM reading can still be recorded even if it’s not working properly at times. You probably didn’t remove the block from the CPU while cleaning your PC. It seems like the fans are reaching their maximum speed on the temperature curve for your CPU, and they’re not moving much because the pump isn’t circulating coolant or water anymore.