Here’s how to lower CPU temperature using 8 methods

Dust is your PC’s biggest enemy, and if you don’t make a habit of cleaning it regularly, you’re bound to run into issues such as high CPU temperatures. Dust buildup can have a negative effect on all components, especially the CPU and case fans, preventing them from spinning at their full potential, which leads to poor airflow and increased temperatures.

To get rid of the dust, unplug the power cable, open your PC case, and use an air duster or compressed air and a soft brush to clean all components, including fans and vents.

While cleaning the PC can improve airflow, you need to follow some other steps to further enhance it. The first thing you need to do is improve cable management because messy cables can ruin the airflow and cause temperatures to rise. Next, ensure that your PC is placed in a well-ventilated area, where its vents are not blocked by the walls.

Another way to enhance airflow is by adding new case fans. However, ensure you check the size of the vents before purchasing the fans, as you may run into compatibility issues otherwise.

Over time, thermal paste can dry out, losing its ability to effectively dissipate heat from the CPU. That’s why it’s advisable to replace the thermal paste annually. Even if you use a high-quality thermal paste, we still recommend replacing it after a year, especially if your processor is frequently under heavy load.

Another method to improve temperatures is by adjusting your CPU cooler’s fan speed. This can be accomplished directly from the BIOS or with a third-party application like Fan Control. However, it’s crucial to note that you can only adjust the speed of fans with a 4-pin connector. Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that not all motherboards support third-party applications like Fan Control.

If you’ve overclocked your CPU to enhance its performance, you’ll need to disable it to reduce temperatures. Overclocking is a common cause of overheating because it pushes the CPU to operate faster than its standard speed.

Undervolting your CPU involves reducing its operating voltage to decrease power consumption and heat output without sacrificing performance. In some cases, undervolting also ends up improving the performance and can get rid of issues like thermal throttling. When your CPU draws less power, it also generates less heat, resulting in decreased temperatures.

If you’re using a standard CPU cooler, then you should consider upgrading to a more efficient model. You have the option to choose between air coolers, which utilize heatsinks and fans, or liquid coolers (AIO or custom loops) for superior thermal performance. Either way, investing in a better cooling system will definitely help with reducing the CPU temperatures. Just make sure to get a cooler from a reputable brand, as a quality cooler should last for several years unless it encounters technical issues or damage.

In certain countries, ambient temperatures can soar, leaving you with no choice but to rely on air conditioning to alleviate the heat. Though not the most cost-effective solution, it remains the only effective way to combat excessively high ambient temperatures.