Are you planning to migrate from a previous CPU to a new one? Sometimes we need to upgrade our CPU in order to boost performance. It happens when our computer becomes sluggish and requires a complete PC upgrade. If we have a tight budget, we may use our old components to build a new PC. For example: RAM and CPU cooler. Can you reuse a CPU cooler?
This is a topic that has come up on many platforms, such as Reddit and Quora. The CPU cooler, RAM or other parts may be used in your new CPU. But, the matter is worth or not. After reading this content, you can determine whether old parts have any potential uses or not. So, sit tightly on your coach and read the entire content.
Can I use the same CPU cooler with a new CPU?
“Budget always Matters!”
You are thinking of migrating your PC and want to use some of the parts from your old PC, right? It means that your budget is tight. In this situation, you have a confusion about the use of a CPU cooler in your new CPU.
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Whether you should use a CPU cooler in a new PC or not depends on 4 factors. If all the factors are in your favor, then you may use the same CPU cooler. Let’s analyze those conditions:
Factor one: Make sure the CPU cooler is in a good condition.
The first and foremost factor is the condition of your CPU cooler. Check whether it is creating any problem in your old PC or not. If it doesn’t show any sign of wear and tear, then you may use it with a new CPU.
Factor two: Check the model and size of your CPU cooler.
The model and size of your CPU cooler also play an important role. Make sure that the model and size are compatible with the new CPU. If the model and size are not the same, then you can’t use it.
Factor three: Check the compatibility of the CPU cooler with the motherboard.
The next important factor is the compatibility of the CPU cooler with the motherboard. If the CPU cooler is incompatible with the motherboard, you won’t be able to use it. Before using the CPU cooler, check the compatibility of both.
Factor four: Check the warranty of your CPU cooler.
The last but not in the list factor is the warranty of your CPU cooler. If your CPU cooler is under warranty, then you can use it. But, if the warranty has expired, then you should not use it. You shouldn’t neglect this factor; Sometimes expired products may produce extra heat.
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After analyzing all the factors, you can use your old CPU cooler or not. If you believe that all of the variables are in your favor, you may utilize it. But, if any of the factors are not in your favor, then you shouldn’t use it.
Can you remove a CPU cooler and put it back on?
If we want to run our PC smoothly, then we should clean our PC on a regular basis. It depends on the person. If you are a busy person and don’t have time to give maintenance. According to CNET, “You should at least clean your PC in 6 to 10 months to run smoothly”.
So, Why do we talk about cleaning the inside of our PC? Generally, We remove our PC’s parts (eg: CPU cooler) for cleaning purposes. After cleaning, we put it back. But, the question is “Can you remove a CPU cooler and put it back on?”
The answer is simple “Yes, You can”. Because CPU coolers are not delicate. You may face some difficulties to connect it back.
If you don’t know how to Remove a CPU Cooler Safely, then you should know it first.
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How to Remove a CPU Cooler Safely.
Before cleaning the CPU cooler, we need to remove it first. If you don’t have proper knowledge, you may damage other parts of your PC. From our experience, we are sharing step-by-step guidelines that will be helpful to you while removing a CPU cooler.
Step 01: Turn off your PC and unplug all the cables.
“Safety First”. It is the prime rule that we should follow while removing any parts from our PC. So, turn off your PC first and then disconnect all the cables.
Step 02: Open the CPU cabinet and locate the CPU.
After disconnecting all the cables, open the CPU cabinet. It will help you to locate the CPU easily. If you are a first-time user, you may need help from others.
Step 03: Find the CPU socket and release the CPU lock lever.
As you find the CPU, locate the CPU socket. It is generally in the corner of the motherboard. Now, find the CPU lock lever and push it down. It will release the CPU.
Step 04: Hold the CPU by its edges and lift it up gently.
Now, hold the CPU by its edges and lift it up gently from the socket. You should be careful while doing this; Otherwise, you may damage the CPU or other parts.
Step 05: Remove the heatsink and CPU cooler.
Now, you will see the heatsink on it. You need to remove the heat sink also. Now, remove the CPU cooler gently.
Step 06: Clean the CPU and heat sink.
Now, you have removed the CPU cooler. It’s time to clean the CPU and heat sink. You can use a brush or compressed air to remove the dust from it.
Step 07: Apply thermal paste on the CPU.
Now, you need to apply thermal paste on the CPU. It will help to improve the heat transfer.
These 7 steps will help you to remove a CPU cooler from your PC very easily. After following these steps, you can clean it and put it back.
Read More: Do I Need To Reinstall Windows 10 With New Motherboard And Cpu?
If you are facing trouble doing this, then you can hire a professional or watch the following video.
How tight should the CPU cooler be?
If you are a complete beginner, then you may face some difficulties installing a CPU cooler. Generally, we use screws to fix the CPU cooler. But, the question is “How tight should the CPU cooler be?”
The answer is not so simple. Because, if you make it too tight, then you may damage your motherboard. On the other hand, if you make it too loose, then it will not work efficiently. All screws should be firmly but evenly tightened. You can use your finger to tighten the screws.
If you don’t want to use your hand, you can buy the SGTKJSJS Screws Standoffs Set Kit. You can purchase these types of kit from Amazon with a budget friendly price.
Now, Can you over tighten the CPU cooler? You shouldn’t over-tighten the CPU cooler. Otherwise, you may damage your motherboard or CPU.
From our experience, we can say that “Tighten it until you feel resistance”. It will be perfect for your CPU cooler.
Final Word.
If you already have a well-functioning CPU cooler, then you don’t need to change it. Because, changing a CPU cooler will not improve the performance of your PC. So, there is no need to spend money on it.
But, if your CPU cooler is not working efficiently or you want to overclock your CPU, then you may need to replace it. Don’t forget to apply thermal paste while installing a new CPU cooler.
You should also keep your focus while screwing the CPU cooler as well. You should not over-tighten or make it too loose.
