How to Install Thermal Grease
Thermal paste, a conductive compound, usually sets in layers between two objects, such as a heatsink and a CPU/GPU. It covers microscopic air pockets that interfere with the heatsink's performance. Thermal compounds conduct heat one hundred times better than air. Applying too much thermal paste can hinder the heatsink's cooling ability. Selecting a metal-based thermal paste often produces the best performance because of the minuscule metal particles nestled within the paste itself, which creates a higher conductivity than other thermal compound types (ceramic and silicone-based). However, ceramic-based thermal paste is better suited for technicians with limited experience installing electrical components.
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Instructions
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Locate the CPU on the motherboard, typically on the left-hand side of an Intel or AMD model. Notice the heatsink and fan components. Find the plastic retention arm and lift it up to release the tension on the locking mechanism. Flip the motherboard around and locate the slot housing the motherboard clip. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry the motherboard clip away from the CPU until it fully releases. Unplug the fan and carefully remove the heatsink away from the motherboard.
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2
Clean the CPU and heatsink with isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber. Do not directly apply the isopropyl alcohol onto the electrical components. Be sure to remove the majority of the residue found after removing the heatsink.
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Extract the thermal compound from its package. Apply a small dab of thermal compound, about the size of an uncooked rice grain, onto the center of the CPU.
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Replace the heatsink back into its original position by snapping the motherboard clip and retention arm over the locking mechanism. Re-plug the fan cord.
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