4 month old custom PC suddenly running very hot

Mendenbarr · 14 Dec 2015

Early August I put together a new gaming PC, here are the specs:
Intel Core i5-4690K, MSI GeForce GTX 960, Cooler Master HAF 912 - Siggy's Build - Mendenbarr's Saved Part List - PCPartPicker

It's been working fine up until a few days ago, when the fan started running much louder than normal. I downloaded a simple temp checker, and started to panic a little, as the CPU was running at 95C. Keep in mind this is a Intel Core i5-4690K 3.5GHz Quad-Core Processor running nothing more strenuous than runescape. I've tried restarting the computer in safe mode, and updating all my drivers, but I stupidly did both at the same time, causing the update to fail, safe mode to get stuck on "please wait" requiring a hard reset, and now windows update isn't managing to check for new updates within 2 minutes. Normally this wouldn't be a problem, but the temp is up to 95C with nothing other than windows update running, so I just shut it down.

I'm planning on opening the case and trying to see if there is a problem with the CPU itself, or the fans, but I'm out of my element here and any advice would be helpful.

linnemeyerhere · 14 Dec 2015

Mendenbarr, welcome to SevenForums.
I would start with the CPU cooler first. What brand is it or is it the stock Intel cooler? I would at the very least see if the cpu mount is a little loose, like a slight wiggle loose. Plan on seeing if a snug down is in order, don't over tighten but the cpu cooler should be good and snugged down. If it is then go and purchase Arctic cleaner and Arctic silver thermal compound and plan on watching several YouTube videos on cleaning and reapplying.

Mendenbarr · 14 Dec 2015

Thanks! It's just the stock cooler, and the thermal paste that came with it. I'm aware that they aren't that good, but the computer wasn't built with high performance in mind, and the CPU rarely, if ever, exceeds 40% use.

essenbe · 14 Dec 2015

Linnemeyerhere gave you very good advice.

linnemeyerhere · 14 Dec 2015

If you feel the cooler is making good contact then it may be the fan. If this is suspected then I would think about a quality CPU cooler replacement.......if you think you're up for this it's logically easy and the temp. differences are dramatic. Issue of ram clearance and case model will all come into play. Also choices like air or water cooling will come up. We can help you with low cost and very good to moderate cost and crazy good.

Air solution (good)
COOLER MASTER Hyper 212 EVO RR-212E-20PK-R2 Continuous Direct Contact 120mm Sleeve CPU Cooler Compatible with latest Intel 2011/1366/1155 and AMD FM1/FM2/AM3+ - Newegg.com

Air solution (great)
Noctua NH-U14S 140mm SSO2-Bearing (Self-stabilising oil-presure bearing) CPU Cooler - Newegg.com

Water solution (one of many great)
Corsair Hydro Series? H80i GT High Performance Water / Liquid CPU Cooler. 120mm - Newegg.com

Keep in mind most all aftermarket coolers will require a new back plate behind mobo but your case should have a huge opening making this a breeze!

Layback Bear · 14 Dec 2015

Is you 4 month old computer still under warranty?
Something to take under consideration.

AddRAM · 15 Dec 2015

Something definitely is wrong, a cpu just doesn`t get hot like that overnight, it should be more of a gradual thing, take off the cooler, clean it out, re paste and re seat it.

wasnotwas · 16 Dec 2015

If the i5 is not overclocked, there's no need for a new cooler. I have some i7's that can run for days @ 100% using just the stock Intel cooler. Re the 'don't overtighten' advice - this only applies to aftermarket coolers that have screws. Last time I built an Intel, the cooler was attached to the board with 4 press, turn and lock connectors that only move 90 degrees. My money's on one of these being loose.

ThrashZone · 16 Dec 2015

Stock coolers suck get a real one and get extra thermal paste so you can practice

Add as many intake and exhaust case fans as you can afford too.

wasnotwas · 16 Dec 2015

I have 2 * i7 4770K's, one stock Intel air cooler, one water. I use all my machines for Cinema 4D rendering which involves all cores at 100% for hours/days. The stock cooler hits low 70's - I can live with that. The water one hits mid 50's. When I installed the water system, I could turn off the case fans - less fluff/dust so less maintenance.

see pic of air cooled box on load

4 month old custom PC suddenly running very hot-render_temps.jpg

this is the water system I have - I paid about £35 UK

Cooler Master: Seidon 120V