CPUs in computers do have optimal temperatures at which they operate, and fortunately, CPUs are built to withstand even extreme temperatures even when operating. It is essential to understand the temperature range of your computers to protect the device from losing its efficiency and even getting damaged. The temperature range for CPUs is usually written on their instructional manuals.
So, Is 70c Degree Too Hot for CPU?
Yes, 70c degrees is relatively high for an operational CPU, but if the CPU is fully loaded, there should be no problem.
70c degrees is hot but still safe for the CPU to avoid an automatic shutdown. The CPU chips do have a maximum temperature range these days that exceed 70 degrees. Some CPUs may come with a full temperature range of 100c degrees. When the maximum temperature range is reached, the chip of the CPU will begin to throttle down and lose its efficiency.
What Happens When CPU Is Exposed To Maximum Temperatures?
Since most CPUs and GPUs have a maximum temperature range of around 100C, most computers will throttle their CPUs or GPUs at temperatures of between 90 and 95C degrees. This throttling may be worsened with the inside of the computer clogging up and the exhaust fan failing. If you game regularly, you may likely change the exhaust fan every 1-2 years when due to the effect of extreme temperatures on your CPU.
What Are The Signs Of Overheating Of The CPU?
The main sign of overheating is the random shutdown, especially when your fan starts running to the extent that you hear the noise. Typically, a fan should run quietly when the CPU is operating at average temperatures. With temperatures exceeding normal, the exhaust fan will work harder to keep the CPU cooler.
Another sign your CPU is working at extreme temperatures is when you begin to feel too hot within your working environment. Just like people, computers will perform better when operated in air-conditioned or well-ventilated rooms. The ideal temperatures for CPUs are between 10 and 35C degrees.
It is essential to test the internal temperatures of your computer from time to time. Conducting tests and monitoring the internal temperatures of your computer is the surest way to determine if your computer is running too hot.
You can use several third-party tools in checking your computer’s temperature; you can also connect these tools with their respective apps to monitor everything going on as regards temperature threshold.
Another prominent symptom of an over-heated CPU is when your computer boots up but automatically shut down after a while. This issue can take varying lengths depending on the temperature of the CPU at that time. In cases of extreme heat, the system will shut down automatically even before it boots up. This problem will require that you allow your computer to rest and allow temperatures to get lowered before rebooting.
When your CPU is over-heated, it will likely operate at a much lower frequency. It is believed that for every 10-degree rise in CPU temperature, there is a 5-15% loss in frequency, but this problem occurs after the maximum temperature threshold has been exceeded. Lowered frequencies are some of the reasons why your computer eventually slows down.
Troubleshooting CPU Overheating – Tips And Procedures
For a new computer or a computer that has been refurbished or modified, you must check the thermal installation first. Make sure the CPU thermal solution is the correct and specific one recommended for the CPU. If you are using another thermal solution brand, make sure it is certified to work according to the thermal specifications for the CPU.
It would be best to verify that the layer protecting the CPU heat sink thermal interface material has been removed. Also, confirm that there is the proper installation of the thermal solution. This means that all the anchors have been fully fastened, and the thermal solution is not bumping into any other internal components.
For thermal solutions like cooling liquids, you must refer to the manufacturer manual on how to install them; otherwise, you will need the help of a computer technician. Make sure the right amount of thermal interface is applied to the processor.
It is also essential to check the operational status of the cooling fan in the computer. You must verify the proper installation of the power connection of the fan, and you must also prove that the CPU fan’s impeller is not blocked and nothing is preventing it from spinning.
You must also verify that the CPU fan’s inlet I not obstructed by cabling or some other components o that proper inflow of air is maintained. It is essential to check the air ventilation and ensure that the chassis internal airflow is consistent.
Check that the computer’s cabling and internal components are not obstructing the inflow of air within the system.
It would be best if you verified that the direction of air and airflow rate are correct according to specifications or requirements. If your computer system uses multiple fans, ensure that the overall computer intake and exhaust are well-balanced to prevent over-heating.
Make sure there is proper air inlet venting if your computer CPU fan is blowing outward. For a pressurized computer configuration where the CPU fan is blowing inward, you must ensure a proper outlet venting.
Loading default BIOS or updating BIOS is also recommended for proper CPU temperature maintenance. First, you must try and load the BIOS setting into the system or try and update the BIOS. Keep the BIOS current setting in mind before you attempt to update it.
If you are using a computer that has not been refurbished or have its settings changed, you must check for any dust on the fans. Excessive build-up of dust around the fan can block the inflow and outflow of air in the computer, making the CPU overheat. Clean the processor heat-sink fan if there is dust.
Please pay attention to the intake and exhaust vents and ensure they are free of lint and dust. Check the fan operation and ensure that the CPU is operating normally. Pay attention to any likely dislodged cable and any blockage to the impeller. Make sure the power source of the fan is also working optimally.
Sometimes, you may have to undo any recent changes to your computer system to restore the optimal functioning of the CPU. You must check if anything has changed in and around your system and undo the changes. Specific changes might be causing the overheating of the system.
You must also check the thermal interface materials and make sure you check for any failure of the processor heat sink retention mechanism. Inspect the system for any broken components that might have to occur due to shock or similar issues. You must also inspect for likely thermal degradation to the thermal interface material of the heat sink.
If you use liquid cooling for your computer CPU, inspect it for possible pump failure or other issues like fluid loss and visible leaks. Keep in mind that the inspection procedure will vary from one manufacturer to another.
Keep in mind that Intel processors do come with in-built thermal protection that shuts down the processor when it gets too hot. This in-built feature can help protect your computer from crashing, especially if the computer is not over-clocked and it is working at the manufacturer’s design specifications.
If you are using third-party software to measure the temperature of the BIOS, make sure the software is validated to work with the CPU.
Cooling Your Computer Temperature Down
It is easier to purchase cooling devices for your computer quickly, but you can do some other things to cool it down. Make sure the area or room where the computer is operated is not too hot; if you are not feeling over-heated, perhaps your computer is not getting over-heated too.
Try as much as possible to improve ventilation and keep temperatures in the room at a maximum of 35C degrees. Installing a fan in your operating room can help improve air circulation and keep temperatures regulated.
The use of air and water cooling systems for CPU is also essential but requires the installation of a computer technician. These cooling substances help return the CPU to optimal operation temperatures by quickly conducting heat away from the internal components.
Conclusion
Maintaining optimal CPU temperature is more than maintaining optimal functions of the fan or cooling system. Sometimes BIOS updates may be all you need to keep your CPU working at its optimal level. In addition to the BIOS update, you may want to consider checking the operating system and other necessary components that will require an update. You may wish to re-activate your Windows update if you have disabled it; this will help you identify all inbuilt software that will require updates. The CPU can often get overworked, especially when you are a regular gamer; hence, you often need to check it.
