New watercooling loop advice
New watercooling loop advice
Hello there, first-time poster.
I’m seeking some advice and suggestions from everyone.
A few months back I constructed my initial watercooling loop, but it hasn’t met expectations—I suspect I made a mistake.
Currently, I’m trying to cool a 7700k and a 1080Ti using an EK Evo Supremacy and an EK GPU block. The rest of the setup includes an EK Dbay MX res/pump combo and an EK XE 240mm rad + CE 140mm rad.
Most games, like GTA V and Mad Max, stay under 35°C on the GPU, but AC Syndicate and many benchmarks push the GPU to 60°C or higher. The radiators are only slightly warm, and the GPU backplate feels hot to the touch. What might be going wrong? Could it be a poor connection with the GPU block? Why does the GPU idle mostly between 22-25°C? Is the waterflow from a faulty pump the issue? The outlet tube also gets quite hot. Is there not enough space for the radiators?
Whatever the reason, I’m tired of this build and planning a new one using a TT View 71 with two triple fan rads at the top and front. Should I choose 360 or 420?
After all these adjustments, I’m considering buying an EK dual D5 pump for better performance, but do I really need it?
Could you assist with this new build? For example, what should be the order of the tubing?
I’m leaning toward a pump/res – GPU – top rad – CPU – front rad – pump/res setup.
But if I install a crossflow rad at the top, that could work.
Alternatively, pump/res – GPU – CPU – top rad – front rad – pump/res.
The second option is simpler and cleaner, but would it make the CPU run hotter?
Also, which LED fans should I get? I’ve checked the Corsair ML ones, but they’re a bit pricey.
Looking forward to your feedback…
AlphaCool rads are pretty decent; I use one in my current build, so I cannot complain. For fans, there are such a large number of options that I would just pick and go with them. If they are lower CFM or lower static pressure, run them in Pull for best possible impact.
Hey,
Tubing run:
Most people assume the GPU will overheat with your setup Reservoir-Pump-Radiator-Radiator-CPU-GPU, since the GPU absorbs heat from the CPU. This is true at some point, but it’s quite minor!
The temperature difference is only about 2 degrees when switching to Radiator-CPU-Radiator-GPU instead of Radiator-Radiator-CPU-GPU.
I suggest using as few tubes as possible, which reduces the risk of leaks and looks much nicer.
And for a very slight variation, it’s definitely worth considering.
😛
Take option #2
Radiator surface:
Always use as much radiator area as fits your setup. If your budget allows, aim for at least 240mm of radius per component to maximize overclocking potential.
High GPU temperatures:
I believe you’ve applied the thermal pads correctly for the GPU block; otherwise, idle temps would be significantly higher.
The pump should handle the job and isn’t a limiting factor here.
The only real fix for me is adjusting the thermal paste—either too much or too little.
Once your CPU and GPU are properly fitted, if you stop overclocking, 240 and 140mm radiators are more than sufficient.
Led fans:
The Thermaltake Rings (120/140mm) RGB fans seem to work well as cool radiators.
I hope this helps a bit!
Best regards,
Twin-Frozr
I've looked into it a bit but which section explains the routing of my tubing?
I'm still getting the hang of things, moving from a bay res that went all the way down and then back up again. Now I'll have the res/pump at the bottom, so... lol
What I'm trying to figure out is whether gravity will play a role here.
What aspect of tubing routing needs more explanation? The order of loops isn't important as long as the pump doesn’t run dry or draw in air. Or are you seeking advice on where to place the tubing? If that’s the case, your answer depends on your specific situation. I recommend searching online for 'water cooling' and checking custom loop configurations. (I just found several options)
Your radiator selection should match your CPU and GPU configuration.
You’ll need only one pump for the loop; two are fine if desired.
Reservoirs aren’t helpful for cooling. (Just a note, some people have tried adding extra large ones – no benefit here)
Once the loop is complete, orientation between top and bottom isn’t critical as long as you’re not routing the system through your home’s attic. Inside the case is acceptable. You’re moving liquid in one direction—similar to a train on a circular track. Gravity still matters, but it’s reduced if you’ve properly evacuated the loop.
AlphaCool rads perform adequately; using one in my setup means I have no issues. For fans, there are many choices available, so I’d simply choose whatever suits them best. If the model has lower CFM or static pressure, it’s better to run them in Pull for optimal results.