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Learn about thermal paste and desktop computer repair near me from the professionals. What is Thermal Paste in Desktop Computer Repair Near Me? Thermal paste, as it relates to desktop computer repair near me, is not a complicated substance. It is a “toothpaste-like” material that helps prevent overheating in computers. In fact, thermal paste is placed in between the CPU and the heatsink or cooling unit for cooling. All computers require some kind of thermal substance to keep cool. In most cases, that substance is thermal paste. However, some computers can use thermal pads, which service a similar function. Instead of a paste, it is a pad that is placed on the CPU. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Thermal Paste in Desktop Computer Repair Near Me There are several factors to consider when choosing a thermal paste. First, the cost is important, but more expensive pastes aren’t always better. Second, thermal conductivity is important, especially in relation to heat transfer. Third, some thermal pastes can be applied easily. However, some are difficult to apply and using them is undesirable. Finally, durability is important, since this determines how often you need to apply the paste. Some thermal pastes only need to be applied once a year, while others may need a monthly application. This is especially true for gaming computers. As a matter of fact, gaming computers create more heat, which is why it’s important to choose the right thermal paste. Regular computers will typically only need one thermal paste replacement every year or two. I’ve seen some computers still function after 5 years without a thermal paste replacement. Silicone-based and Silicone-free Thermal Paste and Desktop Computer Repair Near Me Silicone-based thermal paste uses silicone and thermally conductive fillers in the paste. This type of thermal paste is great for a wide variety of temperatures. However, high-end processors and overclocking will struggle with silicone-based thermal pastes. There are several factors which make silicone-based thermal paste ideal for most computers. First, it has good thermal conductivity. Unlike Silicone-free thermal paste, which is not as versatile as silicone-based pastes. Second, applying and removing the product is extremely easy. Finally, is the resistance to vibration and safe-to-use chemicals. In other words, silicone-based thermal paste is great for everyday use. Unfortunately, it falls short with high-end processors and overclocking. What does this mean for you? In other words, this is a great paste for “everyday” computers, but not for gaming computers. If you have a gaming computer, then I would recommend one of the other thermal pastes (such as those containing metal). Ceramic-based and Carbon-based Thermal Paste and Desktop Computer Repair Near Me Ceramic-based thermal paste is ceramic particles suspended in a silicone or synthetic oil. These pastes are the most affordable, compared to other thermal pastes. In fact, ceramic-based thermal paste doesn’t offer as much thermal conductivity as metal based thermal pastes. However, much like silicone-based pastes, it offers a good product for everyday use. Carbon-based thermal paste is carbon particles suspended in silicone or synthetic oil. Both ceramic-based and carbon-based pastes offer affordability. However, carbon-based thermal pastes offer less thermal conductivity than ceramic-based pastes. If you need a good thermal paste, that is cost effective and offers the best thermal conductivity for the price, then I would recommend ceramic-based pastes. It is important to note that carbon-based thermal pastes are also good for basic computers, even though they offer less thermal conductivity. Liquid Metal Thermal Paste and Desktop Computer Repair Near Me For obvious reasons liquid metal thermal paste should be used with caution. In fact, the number one mistake during application is causing a short on the motherboard, due to unnecessary contact with the thermal paste. As you may have guessed, liquid metal thermal paste has metal that can cause a short on your other components if exposed. For example, applying the thermal paste and a tiny swab accidentally gets put on the circuit board of the GPU. Suddenly your GPU no longer functions. Liquid metal thermal paste is extremely desirable due to the high thermal conductivity of the substance. Additionally, this is the thermal paste that is requested by most gamers. Unfortunately, it does come with that one drawback, that it can completely destroy a system if not applied carefully. What You Will Need to Change the Thermal Paste During Desktop Computer Repair Near Me First, you will need a quiet space to perform the thermal paste change uninterrupted. Unfortunately, any little mistake can cause catastrophic damage to your computer system. I like to perform the work in a static-free zone (away from carpets) to prevent static discharge during cleaning. In fact, wearing the right shoes can prevent static discharge altogether. Second, you will need alcohol, which is important in removing old thermal paste and cleaning surfaces. Third, you will need cotton swabs and Q-tips to apply the alcohol as needed. Finally, you will need some rubber gloves to further prevent static transfer to the computer. If you get stuck with the materials, then contact a local shop for desktop computer repair near me. How to Change Thermal Paste in Desktop Computer Repair Near Me To change the thermal paste on your computer, there are several steps you must follow. You’ll want to remove all the screws from the heatsink or liquid cool system to expose the CPU. Next, you will want to remove all the old thermal paste from your CPU. If the thermal paste is too hard and can’t be removed easily with alcohol, then try using a razor to gently scrape it off. Once the old thermal paste is removed, you can add the new paste to the CPU. However, you should be very careful not to add an excessive amount of thermal paste. This can cause damage to the other components, especially if it is liquid metal. Finally, you will need to put the heatsink or fan back and screw it into place. Congratulations! You have successfully changed your computer’s thermal paste. How Often to Change Thermal Paste for Desktop Computer Repair Near Me If you have a computer that is less than 2 years old, then you don’t need to worry about thermal paste. In most cases, the initial thermal paste is good for 1-2 years. However, if your computer is 2 or more years old, then it’s time to change that thermal paste. In fact, if your computer is overheating, even if it is less than 2 years old, then you’ll want to change the thermal paste. Desktop Computer Repair Near Me Who has the best desktop computer repair near me? DML Computer Repair offers amazing computer repair Colorado Springs CO, the best computer repair services, and 24-hour service. Do you need desktop computer repair near me? No problem! Call or visit today for your free computer diagnostics. Author Information for Computer Repair Colorado Springs CO De Landres DML Computer Repair Technician | Data Recovery Expert | Software Expert | PC Articles Author Author Quote: “Google is your friend, not food”. ~De