Each computer generates heat from the moment it is turned on and uses fans or other systems to cool the most delicate components, including the power supply and, above all, the processor. As for the latter, it is really important that the CPU temperature remains as low as possible in order to keep the computer running as long as possible and avoid its deterioration.
CPU warming is so important to a PC that every system turns off suddenly if the temperature goes too high to prevent the processor from burning.
The CPU temperature of a computer should ideally remain constant between 40 ° C and 50 ° C on newer and optimized PCs, reaching 70-80 ° C on older and dusty computers.
Above 80 and, above all, with a temperature above 90 ° C, the situation becomes risky for the integrity of the processor and the system will be forced to activate the safety procedure and automatically shut down to avoid damage.
The causes of a high CPU temperature are basically attributable to three causes, which in most cases can be corrected and eliminated.
READ FIRST: free programs to control temperature and heat in the PC
1) Lack of thermal paste
The thermal paste must be placed on the processor surface, in direct contact with the heat sink (the fan) and helps to transfer heat efficiently.
It must be spread evenly creating a space between CPU and heatsink.
For example, operating a CPU without thermal paste is like driving a car with an oil-free engine.
The processor without thermal paste burns out as well as the engine of the machine without oil.
To check if the CPU needs new thermal paste, you have to open the case, locate the heat sink (i.e. the fan above the processor) and remove it.
Then clean the surface of the processor from the old and dry paste and squeeze the tube of the new paste in the center.
Then reposition the heat sink on the processor so that it, put in contact and pushed on the processor, will distribute the paste evenly over the entire surface.
After closing and turning on the PC, check if the temperature detected by the programs is lower than before.
Thermal paste can be purchased on Amazon for 7 Euros.
2) Too much dust
Computer dust can not only clog the computer case's vents, but it can also build up on the fans, slowing their rotation and preventing proper cooling.
The heat sink also accumulates a great deal of dust in the internal spaces, preventing the uniform passage of air.
Fortunately, as already explained, cleaning the inside of the computer is easy and it can be enough to even use a can of compressed air to blow the dust away from the fan blades, from the power supply, from the motherboard and from all the other components. .
3) The heat sink is positioned incorrectly
If thermal paste is applied and the CPU temperature does not drop, it may be that the heat sink has not been placed properly and does not reach full contact with the processor.
In this case, therefore, it is better to detach and reposition it, making sure that all the mounting points are aligned and locked.
4) Buy a new CPU cooler
The fan above the CPU keeps the chip cool by lifting and transferring heat from the CPU outward.
If your computer is a few years old and the heatsink is so impregnated with dirt and dust that it is even difficult to clean, you should buy a new one.
Paying attention only to buying the same model of the old one, which is compatible with the socket (attack) of the motherboard, you can buy a common CPU cooler like this.
Alternatively, for high-level configurations, you can think of buying a liquid heatsink, which however costs almost 100 Euros.
5) Need for an additional fan
On a computer to which components such as a new hard disk or another power supply or a larger video card are added, an additional fan may also be needed.
About how to manage the PC fans for better cooling and air flow, we talked in another article, with instructions for mounting a new one.
Typically this can be attached with screws on the space provided above the case and connected to the motherboard with a three-pin plug.
A new fan can be purchased on Amazon for 15 Euros or less.
6) A malware
Some common malware infections cause a spike in CPU temperature because they keep it busy.
In this case you should also notice a constant use of the maximum fans and a slowdown in performance.
To verify that there are no malware and viruses, it is always advisable to scan with the antivirus and also with the Malwarebytes antimalware program.
7) Deactivate overclocking
If you have activated the processor overclocking, to increase its speed or clock frequency (from the Bios or through some program), then you must immediately deactivate it.
Overclocking, in fact, costs more CPU heat and a higher temperature inside the computer.
READ ALSO: Ways to cool your pc in hot weather
