Thermal paste: application & replacement

When paste actually needs replacing, how to clean the old layer, and application patterns that work.

1. 1

   When to repaste

   Paste lasts 3–5 years typically. Repaste when idle/load temps creep up 10°C+ over time, when removing the cooler for any reason, or when inheriting a used system.

2. 2

   Clean both surfaces

   Remove the cooler (twist gently if stuck — never pry), then wipe CPU lid and cooler cold plate with isopropyl alcohol until mirror-clean. Let dry for a minute.

3. 3

   Apply the right amount

   Pea-sized dot in the center for most CPUs; for large rectangular CPUs (Threadripper) use an X pattern. Mounting pressure does the spreading.

   Tip: Manual spreading with a spatula is optional and mostly cosmetic — the dot method measures identically in testing.

4. 4

   Remount evenly

   Lower the cooler straight down, then tighten screws in a cross pattern, a few turns each, until snug. Uneven tightening causes uneven contact and hot cores.

5. 5

   Verify temps

   Boot and check idle temps (~30-45°C typical) and load temps with a stress test like Cinebench (below ~90°C for modern CPUs under all-core load is fine; many boost until ~95°C by design).