Cleaning heat sink


  1. Posts : 33
    Windows 7 32 bit home premium
       #1

    Cleaning heat sink


    Is it ok to clean between the heat sink fins using a small artists paintbrush (natural animal hair type), I usually use a compressed air can but I notice there is still a fine dust layer left behind. I know not to use nylon etc brushes because of the static but is static a problem for just between the sink fins.
      My Computer


  2. Posts : 25,847
    Windows 10 Pro. 64/ version 1709 Windows 7 Pro/64
       #2

    If the heat sink is still attached to the cpu; yes static can be a problem.
    They do make static free brushes for just such a job.

    I would recommend removing the heat sink and then clean it.
    It would also be a good time to clean and replace the thermal compound between the heat sink and the cpu.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 20,583
    Win-7-Pro64bit 7-H-Prem-64bit
       #3

    Hi,
    Which cpu cooler do you have ?
    I have with a cheapo stock cooler used a horse hair paint brush worked okay.
    I believe the paint brush cost more than the cheapo cpu cooler
      My Computer


  4. Posts : 33
    Windows 7 32 bit home premium
    Thread Starter
       #4

    Oh I didn't realise the heat sink could be detached, I thought it came with the chip attached. Does it unclip as I am always a bit wary of going near the motherboard.
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 20,583
    Win-7-Pro64bit 7-H-Prem-64bit
       #5



    A little better one :/
    Last edited by ThrashZone; 19 Nov 2015 at 07:22.
      My Computer


  6. Posts : 33
    Windows 7 32 bit home premium
    Thread Starter
       #6

    Thanks for all the help, it has helped a lot
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 20,583
    Win-7-Pro64bit 7-H-Prem-64bit
       #7

    Hi,
    Neither one of those videos were very good but will give you an idea of what is involved good heads up on what not to do too :)

    Most fans will be screwed on and removable without removing the heat sink
    But if it's not it might be time to upgrade it to a better model now without messing with the factory stock one

    Heck take a photo of it and post it here if you want too :)
    Plus fill in your system spec's page too with the link above my signature.
      My Computer


 

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