Normally, computer users are not very concerned about what temperature their CPU is running at. Desktop users may feel the hot air coming out of the back and laptop users may be concerned if the heat is too much for their laps. In reality, the temperature of the CPU depends on what the computer is doing, that is, how many programs it is currently running and how the manufacturer has arranged the fans in the cabinet.
Although the exact information of how hot your CPU should be running will be available with the processor manufacturer on their website, most processors used in desktops today do not exceed 90°C and typically operate between 70 and 90°C. However, this is only a general idea of what the processor should be running at, and as said earlier, the actual temperature depends on what programs the computer is concurrently running.
If you notice your computer running much slower than usual, restarting often or randomly crashing or turning off, it is likely that the processor is getting too hot. These effects are usually more noticeable when playing advanced games or when too many programs are running at the same time. If you continue to use your computer when its processor is exceeding its temperature limits, it is likely to reduce the life expectancy of the processor.
As the CPU speed reduces when its temperature goes up, you get more performance when the processor is running cooler. Overclocking a processor may allow you to run the CPU at a higher speed, but there is a likelihood that it will also generate more heat and its temperature will go up. Therefore, paying attention to how to remove excess heat from your computer may help in extracting more performance from it.
It is very important to keep your computer clean. Over time, hair, dirt and dust build-up can clog the ventilation holes and prevent good airflow inside the case. Therefore, make sure all ventilation holes are clean and heat sinks are not covered in grime.
For good air circulation, make sure the computer is placed in a good location, and not in a closed space such as inside a cabinet or a drawer. Unless there is plenty of ventilation, you may remove the back of the cabinet or the drawer. Keeping a space of at least two inches on both sides and the front of the computer is a good practice.
Verify that all the fans mounted inside the case and on the CPU heat sink are operating properly; look for any spinning or noise issues. Operating systems can monitor and display the fan speeds of the major fans in the computer. If you have replaced the processor or its fan lately, make sure you have applied the thermal paste properly, as that helps to transfer the heat away from the processor to the heat sink. You may also want to install more fans or replace those present with ones more efficient in moving air; check the CFM rating – higher is better.
Lastly, for those heavily into gaming or interested in over-clocking, water cooled solutions are available to keep processors cool.
