A CPU cooler is the most important component of your PC.
Without installing it, your PC may not even turn on.
This is due to BIOS protocols that protect the CPU from heat build-up.
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So correctly installing the CPU cooler is very crucial.
The process is detailed step-by-step so that you will not have any difficulty doing this on your own.
So get your screwdriver ready, and lets get started.
What Do you oughta Install a CPU Cooler?
Most CPU coolers include mounting brackets, backplates, and the necessary screws inside the box.
Other than that, just ensure the cooler is positioned correctly and attached securely to the backplate.
The better the contact made between the CPU and the cooler, the better cooling you will get.
In this guide, we will assume that you have already installed the CPU and applied the thermal paste.
How to Install a Stock CPU Cooler
AMD and Intels stock coolers are relatively easy to install.
With Intel CPUs, the stock cooler does not require any backplate.
This is due to a plastic retainer that holds the cooler in place.
Lets now look at how you’re free to install them both.
TheWraith Prismuses clips to attach itself to the CPU, while theWraith SpireandStealthimplement screws to hold them.
I have shown how to install them both below.
The Wraith Prism comes with a retention clip.
This has a different installing mechanism compared to the spring-loaded screws.
This will indicate you have installed the CPU cooler successfully.
It is the mounting bracket.
The bracket sits on the opposite side of the backplate and is attached to the CPU socket.
You do not need to purchase it separately, as it is already included in the box.
As these coolers are often large, you must see if they fit inside your PC case.
Also, note if your cooler provides enough clearance with the memory module before purchasing it.
To demonstrate this, I have used a Noctua D15 cooler and installed it on an AM4-based system.
One thing to note is that not every cooler will be the same.
The mounting brackets and backplates are all different.
But the procedure to install them is often the same.
If you are confused about what goes where do check out the manual before installing.
Finally, turn on the PC and see if the BIOS shows up.
you’re able to see the current CPU temperatures monitored right from here.
How to Install an AIO CPU Cooler
AIO coolerstake more time to install.
Because you get more parts which need assembling.
Spare some time to plan how you would want the air to flow through the case.
The radiator fans have a separate pack of washers and screws for them.
Attach a washer to one of the screws and screw it into the radiator.
Do the same for all the fans on the radiator.
Once the fans are attached, it is time to load the radiator.
Use the small screws with the washers installed and securely connect the radiator to your case.
To install it, remove the tape covering the adhesive and line it with the holes on the motherboard.
Give it a gentle push, and it should stick there.
There are separate stand-offs for holding the backplate in position.
Screw them in, as they will be needed for the cold plate later on.
Remove the plastic cover from the cold plate and align it with the backplate screws that you just installed.
Now use thumb screws to attach them into place.
Some AIO units allow you to change the cold plate cover.
The Corsair H150i that we used here comes with a spare one.
you’re able to change that if you want.
The Corsair H150i has one.
If you have something like that, all the power and ARGB cables will connect to it.
Then you have to connect the hub to the motherboards USB header and a SATA power connector.
We still have one thing left, and that is the pump connector from the AIO.
It will connect to the CPU FAN header.
Finally, boot up your PC.
You should see the BIOS recognizing your components, and that shows that everything went on smoothly.
In most cases, you have to remove the screws and pull the cooler from its place.
But before doing this, ensure that the PC is running for a few minutes.
Remove Intel Stock Cooler
Intel coolers come with a push pin that can be rotated.
You have to rotate all of them counterclockwise from the installed position first.
This will unlock them for removal.
Now just pull the cooler upwards with a gentle force.
That will release the cooler.
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Remove AMD Stock Cooler
There are two styles of AMD coolers: clip-on and screw-in.
Proceed to the one that is present on your system.
Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove all four screws attached to the cooler.
The screws will not come out as they are held by a spring.
First, you gotta unlock the lever on the cooler.
In the locked state, it is placed on the right side.
Apply some force and move it to the left.
Now you have to remove the metal arms which are attached to the plastic brackets.
Push the cooler down and pull the arms outwards to release it.
Repeat this with both sides of the CPU cooler.
This should free the cooler, and you’ve got the option to easily remove it.
To do this, apply some pressure on the heatsink and pull out the clip by pressing it downwards.
Repeat the same steps on the other side.
Once the clips are free, take them out using a wiggle motion.
Do not pull it using a strong force.
The cooler should come off easily.
These types of coolers are much easier to remove because there are no clips to worry about.
First, remove the clips that are holding the fans in place.
Pull these back, and they will come out of the heatsink ridges.
Now pull the pins outwards when you are removing the fans.
Next, you should probably remove the fan headers attached to the motherboard.
To remove the heatsink, unscrew it from the mounting plates attached to the motherboard.
Use the same screwdriver provided with the cooler.
This helps you to reach the small spaces easily.
Once you remove the screws, the heatsink should come off very easily with a gentle push.
Firstly, disconnect the respective power cables for the fans and AIO pump.
And then, remove the radiator and cold plate.
Start by locating all the fans attached to the radiator and trace their cables going to the motherboard.
Also, do not forget to unplug the AIO pumps power cable, which goes to theAIO-PUMPheader.
Once you unplug everything, it is time to take out the radiator.
To remove the cold plate, unscrew it from the mounting bracket.
Using a gentle twisting motion, wiggle the cold plate until it comes off.
Do not yank it, as the CPU pins can get damaged.
Next, remove the screws holding the radiator to your case.
Pull it out carefully, as the fans are still attached to it.
Once outside, put the radiator in a safe place.
So, thats how you remove a CPU cooler without damaging the processor or other components.
Hope you find the article very helpful.
Frequently Asked Question
Do I need to put water in my CPU cooler?
But other than that, CPU coolers do not require any water to be added to them.
How many coolers does a PC need?
A PC normally needs a single cooler for its processor.
What is the best place to put a CPU cooler?
It all depends on how your case is optimized for airflow.
Always put it in a position where the fans can draw cool air into the radiator.
This can be at the top or the front of the case.
Final Words
This article aims to make the CPU fan installation and removal process a breeze.
Some units have a complicated procedure for sure, but they do follow the same procedure as the others.
Also, if you get stuck, remember to consult with your CPU cooler manual.
Thats everything to cover for today.
Hope this article helps you out.
