During operation, a processor generates heat, which is dissipated by a heat sink.
The thermal paste is used to conduct away heat from the CPU to the heat sink.
But what if you ordered your PC & forgot about the thermal paste?
Is it safe without the paste, or will the PC work normally?
In this article, I will explain the importance of thermal paste & how to apply it properly.
Can You Run a CPU Without Applying Thermal Paste?
A CPU will require proper voltage and an adequate cooler to function initially.
But, like voltage or cooler, thermal paste is not a required part to operate.
However, the paste is a crucial compound that assists to cool the processor.
It minimizes the gap between the chip & heat sink.
So what will happen if you dont use thermal paste?
Without thermal paste, these air bubbles prevent heat transfer to the heat sink.
This results in an ineffective thermal cooling process.
Also, it causes overheating & eventually fails to operate.
Thermal paste is a must to improve thermal efficiency.
The paste works as a bridge between the CPU lid & the heat sink.
As well as that, the paste minimizes the gap & tightens the contact for better thermal conductivity.
That brings a question,can the CPU get fried?
So, for a better thermal solution, thermal paste is requisite.
Why is Thermal Paste Mandatory & How to Apply it?
Thermal paste is compulsory to mitigate the micro flaws of the surface contact.
Thus, the paste saves the chip from long-term damage & maintains the comfort temp.
So will the CPU burn without the paste?
But if I use it for a long time?
Should I try it?
Because, although the CPU will turn on, it will not sustain a longer period.
As I dont have any intent to buy a new chip, I will not try it.
Basically, you should always use thermal paste for the best thermal solution.
Properly applying the thermal paste is also crucial.
Otherwise, you may accidentally drop the compound & then have toclean the paste from CPU pins or motherboards.
As the paste is thermally conductive, spilling out on anyMOSFETorCPU pinormotherboardis not a good idea.
Also, dont use water, instead,use rubbing alcohol to clean the paste.
You musttighten the cooler if its loose, otherwise it can start to vibrate and dont work effectively.
How Often Should You Replace Thermal Paste & its Alternative?
The thermal paste is not trendy like CPU & GPU.
But its a vital part of the processor to work effectively.
So, always keep an eye out for the temp to prevent CPU breakdown.
Usually, you will be required to change the thermal pasteyearlybasis, based on its quality.
What if it’s crucial that you repaste & there is nothing left in the tube?
But you should probably use the PC for urgency like finishing assignments or testing newly bought PC parts.
Well, as an alternative, you’re able to usehazelnut spread,diaper rash cream, orbutter.
you could alsouse toothpaste as a short time thermal solution, for like a few hours.
Though, keep in mind that these compounds aretemporarysolutions ¬ recommended.
As soon as possible, you should properly clean those & reapply quality thermal paste.
What Happens if Thermal Paste Gets on the Motherboard?
We use the thermal paste as a thermally conductive compound.
This is why you should apply a pea-sized paste in the center of the chip.
If you overuse the paste, it can spread outside the socket or onto the CPU pin.
Also, dont spread the paste by hand or something.
Just mount the heat sink properly & it will do the job.
FAQs
Should I spread the thermal paste myself?
You shouldnt spread the paste manually.
Instead, put the heat sink vertically to mount it & spread the paste with the heat sink.
Can I apply thermal paste by hand?
You shouldnt use your hand while applying thermal paste.
Your hand can add dirt or residue to the thermal paste.
Can I use water to clean the thermal paste?
You should always avoid water, as it can damage your full rig.
Instead, use 99% isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol to clean up the old thermal paste.
What is normal CPU temp?
To make the PC functional & healthy, better to use thermal paste.
