Should I consider installing an additional exhaust fan for my PC?
Should I consider installing an additional exhaust fan for my PC?
I'm setting up a PC for the first time and wondering if adding another exhaust fan is necessary. My setup includes a Thermaltake core v71 with two front 200mm intake fans, a top 200mm exhaust fan, and a rear 140mm turbo exhaust fan. I'm planning to use a H50 processor cooler that will be placed where the rear 140mm fan is located. I'm considering mounting the H50 on top with the 200mm fans, but I want to confirm if that would work or if I should consider an additional fan.
No matter the hardware or overclocking level, a trio of 200mm fans combined with a rear radiator fan in exhaust setup provides ample cooling for nearly any system. If you install the existing rear exhaust fan on top and it fits, it won't negatively affect performance but may slightly increase the overall noise level. In any case, the case fans offer substantial cooling capacity.
No matter the hardware you use or if you boost everything, a trio of 200mm fans plus a rear radiator fan in exhaust setup is sufficient for nearly any system. If you decide to install the existing rear exhaust fan at the top and it fits, it won't negatively affect performance, though it may slightly increase the overall sound pressure compared to without it. In any case, you have ample cooling capacity with the case fans.
Darkbreeze :
No matter the hardware or overclocking, three 200mm fans plus a rear radiator fan in exhaust setup works well for most systems. If you install the rear exhaust fan at the top and it fits, it won't negatively affect performance, though it might slightly increase sound pressure. In terms of case fans, you have ample cooling capacity.
For the H50, I wouldn't invest in it since its performance lags behind most mid to high-end air coolers. If you're planning water cooling, even a closed-loop AIO system, I'd recommend at least a 240mm setup—though that depends on your budget and preferences. Personally, I'd prefer air cooling over the H50.
So what if you tried placing the H50 in an intake position?
In fact, it would be better if your case supports it from the start. That way you could use the cooler ambient room air to cool the unit, and I’d also like to ensure there’s enough space to install another intake fan besides the one on the radiator. Considering airflow might be limited around the radiator, adding another intake would help. As long as you can do it without removing the other front intake or by placing a 120 or 140mm intake above it for two intakes, it’s fine. You should also make sure the exhaust fan is reinstalled.