Precautions Before Attempting to Remove a CPU Cooler
When you handle hardware parts yourself, you are always doing so at your own risk. If a component is not repaired or replaced by a licensed repair shop, you should proceed with great caution. Here is a list of the most common mistakes when attempting to remove a CPU cooler yourself, so don’t skip applying these steps below since they might prevent hardware damage.
How to Remove a CPU Cooler With Spring Screws?
Generally, there are two types of CPU coolers: Stock manufacturer ones, which come installed by default, or custom third-party CPU coolers. Most of the stock Intel and AMD/RYZEN coolers use bolts that hold the cooler unit tight to the CPU. If your CPU cooler is held in place by four screws, then follow these steps:
How to Remove a CPU Cooler With Retention Brackets?
Some CPU coolers are held in place by a snap-on metal bracket; follow these steps to remove it properly:
How to Remove a CPU Cooler That Is Hard Stuck to the Heat Sink?
If you notice that you can’t remove the CPU cooler from the CPU, even if all screws are removed, and any clamps are disabled, you have to take a unique approach. Never use sharp metal objects to try and pry the processor off from the stuck cooler under any circumstances. Use these steps instead:
How to Remove a Liquid CPU Cooler?
Removing a liquid CPU cooler is the same as any other cooler. Most liquid CPU coolers are held to the CPU with four screws, so the same steps apply to remove a liquid CPU cooler. When handling a water-cooled CPU block, be extremely cautious to prevent permanent hardware damage from cooling liquid spills.
How to Install a CPU Cooler Back?
To install the CPU cooler back, once it was removed, follow these steps instead: If you feel that the CPU cooler is too loose at any point after this process, stop the process and repeat from the start until the CPU is held securely in place.
How to Reapply Thermal Paste After the Cooler Is Removed?
If the thermal paste between your CPU and the cooler is depleted or dried out, it needs to be replaced. The common symptoms of this are if your PC freezes up due to extremely high CPU temperatures. Even if your case is dust-free, having poor thermal paste conductivity can prevent your CPU from running normally. To replace your thermal paste with a new one, follow these steps:
Conclusion
Alright, if you’ve followed our guidelines properly, you’ve probably managed to remove the CPU cooler. But before we end this guide, here’ are few word of caution:
Always do your due diligence and follow general safety precautions when attempting to alter or change any PC hardware part. Never, under any circumstances, put a CPU cooler on top of a CPU without applying thermal paste beforehand.Always check if the screws or clamps are fully and firmly secured to the motherboard. A single loose screw can result in CPU overheating.
