[SOLVED] How often should I change the pre-applied thermal paste for my year old h100i v2 liquid cooler?

[greenbatman]

I got this thing nearly a year ago, haven't changed the pre applied thermal paste yet, at what point do I need to change it? Also, what thermal paste should I use for it?

 

[13thmonkey]

I haven't changed mine in 5 years (not pre-applied though).

Change it when you start to see worsening temps, note it will be slight, and change slowly. A sudden jump to 100 for instance is not a paste issue.

 

[Eximo]

When you notice a rise in average temperatures.

90% of the time you can leave paste on between major overhauls.

What paste is down to what you want to pay. Most thermal compounds perform within a few degree C of each other, so it isn't vital to get the best paste out there unless you are doing heavy overclocking.

Arctic MX-4 is my go to recommendation for a decently priced and versatile compound. Works well on all types of interfaces.

For a smooth chill plate and CPU interface, you will find that the thinner, more liquid pastes work better. (See thermal grizzly, noctua)

For rougher direct heat pipe coolers you often want a thicker paste. MX-4 works well here.

 

[greenbatman]

Thanks for the replies guys, my temperatures are really good so doesn't look like it needs to be changed. Thanks again!