Issues with Temperature Control in I7 7700k (Airflow)
Issues with Temperature Control in I7 7700k (Airflow)
Hi,
Since setting up my computer in July, I've noticed persistent temperature issues inside my case. I've thoroughly studied the setup and airflow, and I think I've identified the problem. My i7 7700k is overclocked at 4.8GHz and cooled by a front-mounted Corsair H100i v2 (out-of-box fans) in push mode. The case is a Phanteks P400S. Temperatures are around 85 to 92°C during gameplay, with an ambient temperature of about 30°C. Both the rear and top exhaust fans are stock 120mm units included with the case. I've removed the front dust filters and the two top plates in an attempt to resolve this. Despite these changes, temperatures and airflow haven't improved much.
My build specs can be found here: https://pcpartpicker.com/user/ptrk/saved/f8Jcf7
Pictures: https://imgur.com/a/Cu0dS
I ignored the zip tie because I encountered a strange problem with the tubes hitting the glass and making a loud noise. I've been busy and haven't had time to find a permanent fix. Attached are some pictures, but my idea is that the radiator is limiting cool air due to restricted front airflow in the case. I suspect it's not just blocking air but also pushing warm air into other parts of the case, which has caused irregular GPU temperatures. This might be my incorrect assumption. If correct, would an air cooler improve things? Also, how much overclocking should I consider with this new setup?
Thanks,
Patrick
All my setups are performed with a top-mounted design if feasible, allowing ambient air to enter the case. The effectiveness of airflow and extraction varies depending on the system, but it's generally not a major issue. Keep in mind that ambient air will affect the case temperature, which may be similar or higher.
The Hydro Series H100i v2 features a 240mm radiator and dual SP120L PWM fans. A push-pull setup is recommended, as 140mm fans can move more air and fit according to the case specifications. The depth of the pull fans will influence whether they interfere with the MBR.
I would install your Corsair AIO in its current configuration and top-mount it to observe the results first.
Hi Patrick
Ambient temperatures of 30C are not ideal for an overclocked system. You might need to save a few OC profiles, one for summer and one for winter.
The ECLIPSE P400S supports top-mounted radiators. Have you considered mounting them with fans drawing air from outside? Front mounting could be limiting case airflow. The EVGA is not a reference model, so it may push hot air into the case under load. You’ll need good extraction fans, around 140mm, to maintain proper airflow.
Your i7 7700K should work at 4.8-5.0GHz with the h100i (depending on the specific OC chip).
MeanMachine41 sent a message offering advice on overclocking setups. He suggested saving multiple OC profiles for different seasons and recommended using top-mounted radiators with fans drawing air from outside. He pointed out potential issues with front mounting and the need for good airflow, mentioning the importance of extraction fans. Patrick also shared his thoughts on handling temperatures and asked about fan configurations and quiet fan options that match his build's color scheme.
All my setups are performed with top mounting if feasible, allowing ambient air to enter the case. The effectiveness of airflow and extraction varies depending on the system, but it's generally a manageable adjustment with minimal impact. Remember that ambient air will keep your case temperatures stable or slightly higher.
The Hydro Series H100i v2 features a 240mm radiator and dual SP120L PWM fans. A push-pull setup works best, and 140mm fans provide better airflow while fitting the case requirements. The depth of the pull fans affects whether they interfere with the mounting.
I recommend installing your Corsair AIO as originally and top-mounted to assess performance first. If the dual SP120L PWM fans are too loud under load, consider swapping them for quieter Corsair ML series models. If your fan curve is set to maximum speed, increased RPM will raise noise levels.
Noctua offers a selection of quiet fans, but they won't match the color options available with Corsair ML120mm and 140mm models.