Desktop CPU Cooling System: dried thermal compound. Aged material no longer fills microscopic gaps effectively.

The distinguishing clue

Load temperature is high even with good airflow and fan speed.

Checks before an assessment

Note whether temperature rises quickly after startup or only under sustained CPU work. Keep the case closed and avoid load tests if the cooler may be loose or the pump has stopped.

Stop point: A loose cooler can allow unsafe temperature rise within seconds.

Workshop confirmation and repair

Device-level check: Compare pump or fan speed, cooler mounting, case airflow and processor power under a controlled test.

Targeted check: Exclude blocked fins and inspect the contact pattern after safe removal. If confirmed: Clean and apply the correct compound in an appropriate amount.

Repair boundary: Repair the confirmed fan, pump, mounting, compound or airflow fault before extended load.

Related cause to rule out

When temperature rises almost immediately under modest load, also consider Desktop CPU Cooling System: poor heatsink contact before choosing a repair.

Checks after the work

After repair or replacement, check idle, processor stress, fan or pump speed and cooldown.

For an AEPC repair assessment in East Auckland, provide the exact model and observed clue. Call 027 908 8880 before visiting the Burswood workshop.