Watercooling: Compact ITX Loop Tips
Watercooling: Compact ITX Loop Tips
Hello together!
I just started making my first costume loop. Because it was my first attempt, I made a few errors. As shown in the photo below, I managed to connect everything correctly and everything looks good.
However, I still encountered some issues that affected my temperatures.
For instance, I swapped the In- and Outlet of the Monoblock. Also, EK recommends using the upper port as an Inlet for the GPU.
My main concern is the monoblock; my CPU temperatures aren’t great—around 35–40°C while browsing in stock! And the CPU is running hot.
Could you share some advice on how to build this loop with these parts?
I think the connection method looks good from an appearance standpoint, but I’m really frustrated with these high CPU temps.
Here are my specs:
Case: Fractal Nano S
Mobo: Asus Strix Z370I
CPU: Intel i7 8700K
GPU: EVAA GTX 1080ti SC2
RAM: 32 GB G.Skill Trident Z 3200Mhz
PSU: Corsair SF600
Watercooling parts from EK (I realize I mixed up the In- and Outlet of the Monoblock)
D5 Pump standalone.
Alphacool DP Ultra
Thank you very much!
And please forgive any grammar mistakes—I’m doing my best.
😛
Best regards
Getting your CPU block flow correct would be the first order of business, in my mind. It's hard to say if that is causing the issue or if there really is not a problem. Obviously EK have labeled the inlet/outlet ports for monoblocks for a reason which means they've tested running them both directions just to check during prototype testing and R&D.
For a delidded CPU, that does seem high for gaming...maybe even for 100% stability/load testing as well. GPU temps under 50C is very good, so I don't think you're having issues with flow rates.
Confirm if I have the right sequence: pump, CPU, top panel, GPU, front panel.
It might work to reverse the pump. The CPU is getting too hot due to hot air from inside the case. Your GPU temperatures should be ideal within this loop. ALSO, could you share the fan configuration? I notice two fans in front and four at the back (top and PSU side)?
Yeah, I thought the same thing, just swapping the inlet and outlet of the pump. But in this situation the pump would go into the reservoir, isn't that an issue? Or what exactly do you mean by reversing? I'm pretty sure the order of the components and radiators doesn't really matter for temperatures overall. It doesn't depend on which position the radiator is placed. But my GPU temperatures are really good, while my CPU temperatures are bad because I'm using the inlet as an outlet and vice versa. That setup has 2x 140mm in and 3x 120 out, all controlled via the CPU header with a splitter. Best regards
The order of your loop doesn’t matter as long as your pump can’t draw in air; you’re safe. This is why most people place the reservoir outlet higher than the pump. Don’t alter the flow direction to push into the reservoir. A reservoir is built to hold air that’s pushed out of your loop. Air is compressible, water isn’t.
Thank you for your response.
I agree with your assessment.
It seems my CPU temperatures are significantly higher than expected. After playing Overwatch 4K for an hour, the GPU reaches 50°C but the CPU hits 67°C.
I believe the issue might be related to the mixed-up in and out ports.
Could you suggest a way to adjust the loop so it uses the correct port (right side of the monoblock)?
Appreciate your help!
From GPU to mono inlet.
From mono to top rad inlet.
From top rad outlet to reservoir (turn 90°).
From bottom of reservoir into pump.
Remember to add an outlet for system drainage.
Getting your CPU block flow correct would be the first order of business, in my mind. It's hard to say if that is causing the issue or if there really is not a problem. Obviously EK have labeled the inlet/outlet ports for monoblocks for a reason which means they've tested running them both directions just to check during prototype testing and R&D.
For a delidded CPU, that does seem high for gaming...maybe even for 100% stability/load testing as well. GPU temps under 50C is very good, so I don't think you're having issues with flow rates.