Water Cooling Guide for Computers

As Central Processing Units (CPU) have become more complicated and more powerful, more efficient cooling solutions are in demand. Water cooling (also referred to as liquid cooling) is the most effective way to cool your CPU and other integral components.

Function

Water has a higher heat capacity than air, making it more efficient at cooling components. Water cooling solutions are ideal for overclocked computers, multi-video card (SLI) motherboards and computers in rooms above normal temperatures (70 degrees). Compared to air-based case fans, most water cooling solutions are near silent.

Installation

First generation water cooling solutions were criticized for their difficult installations and unreliability. Modern day water cooling units are significantly easier to install, although most water cooling units are more ideal for full-size computer cases.

Compatibility

Although most modern water cooling units are universal, you should verify what computer components you're using before purchasing a water cooling unit. The unit must be compatible with your computer case, CPU, graphics card and motherboard's north bridge.

References

• xoxide: PC Water Cooling Guide at Xoxide!
• ComputerPartsReview: PC Water Cooling Information