How To Clean Thermal Paste From CPU [2022 Guide]

It’s no secret that a desktop PC must be upgraded from time to time if you want to keep up with the newest games. You won’t want to upgrade too frequently, but replacing the CPU and GPU every four to five years is probably the essential minimum. Of course, this is only necessary if you want to play the most demanding games.

However, substituting a CPU necessitates some PC-building expertise; it isn’t as simple as exchanging a GPU (which can also be daunting if you don’t have any previous experience).

If you would like to swap out a CPU, you must clean the thermal paste from both the CPU and the chilled heatsink/cooler.

To ensure the old thermal paste is completely removed, this guide will explain the most efficient techniques to do so.

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What You Will Need

Before starting the cleaning process, these are a few items you should have readily accessible:

• Microfiber cloth – This is best used for cleaning since it leaves no residue and reduces the risk of scratching.
• Isopropyl alcohol – Thermal paste reacts well with alcohol, making it much easier to remove. Alcohol is a covalent compound, meaning it isn’t electrically conductive.
• Toilet paper – Toilet paper is not as soft as microfiber cloth, but it is still a solid alternative. It is great for the first few wipes when there is still a lot of thermal paste.
• Cotton swabs – These are not mandatory but are very useful for the finishing touches.
• Thermal paste – You will need thermal paste to apply when you’re done removing the old batch.

That’s it! If you own these items, you are prepared to begin.

Removing the Cooler

First things first!

When you upgrade your CPU, remove the cooling apparatus from your personal computer.

If it’s a fan cooler, removing it is not hard. Just unscrew the screws at the CPU corners and take it out.

AIOs or coolers can be slightly more intricate. They typically possess identical four screws located at the corners, alongside a radiator connected to the computer case.

Cleaning the CPU

With the heatsink removed, it’s time to get prepared!

Grab a small amount of dry toilet paper and wipe away some of the excess thermal paste. Make a few swipes with the toilet paper to ensure you won’t spread it around later when you use the isopropyl alcohol.

With that done, you can grab the absorbent material. If you don’t have one, you can continue using soft paper.

Dip a small amount of the alcohol onto the cloth or toilet paper. Making gradual, gentle movements, start wiping the CPU. It will usually take a couple of isopropyl alcohol dips for the CPU’s IHS to be completely clean.

Don’t worry about making it spotless, as the thermal paste can sometimes stain the CPU; there is no point in scrubbing it too vigorously.

Finally, you can use a pair of cotton swabs and dip them in the rubbing alcohol to clean all the intricate spots.

Next, it’s time to shift your focus to the chilly cooler.

Cleaning The Cooler

If you plan to reuse the same cooler you’ve been using, it is essential to clean the thermal paste from the heatsink as well.

The process is fundamentally identical: a few wipes with toilet paper, rubbing with the alcohol-dampened microfiber cloth, cotton swab swipes, and you’re almost ready to start using your computer.

But, wait! First, you need to add the heat-resistant compound to ensure sufficient thermal conduction between the cooler and the CPU.

Applying Thermal Paste

Putting thermal paste on a processor is easier than people think. But, it’s wise to research before starting. Also, having excellent thermal paste is important for optimal outcome.

To help you do this, we have an informative and detailed guide on how to properly apply thermal paste to a CPU.

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1. Remove the cap from the thermal paste syringe.
2. Slowly and steadily push the thermal paste onto the CPU.
3. The simplest method requires you to apply a pea-sized dot onto the middle of the processor.
4. Add the heatsink, and start tightening the screws diagonally to ensure the pressure is as even as possible.

And now you can finally connect your computer and switch it on. Experience the power of your new CPU or the cooling provided by your modern heatsink.

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