Thermal paste is used to conduct heat from your computer’s Central Processing Unit (CPU) to the CPU cooler, which helps prevent overheating. Over time, this paste can degrade, so it’s important to clean off and reapply new thermal paste regularly to optimize your CPU’s performance.
Before you start, make sure your work area is clean and free of lint and other particles. Also, follow electrostatic discharge precautions as needed to avoid damaging the components inside your computer.
You’ll need a few supplies to properly remove and reapply thermal paste. You’ll need a microfiber cloth or paper towel that doesn’t shed, high purity rubbing alcohol (99% is recommended) and cotton swabs. You should also have a tube of new thermal paste handy, as you’ll need to reapply it before you attach the CPU cooler.
It’s important to use 99% isopropyl alcohol because other types of rubbing alcohol may contain additives that won’t evaporate completely, leaving residue on your CPU. You should also avoid using nail polish remover, vodka, tequila or other cleaners because they can damage your CPU and motherboard.
The best way to get rid of old thermal paste is to use a cotton swab moistened with high-percentage rubbing alcohol to clean the visible residue off of your CPU. You can repeat this process as often as necessary until you can’t see any more residue.Thermal paste removal
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