How to check if my CPU cooler is working properly?

Nov 20, 2025

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Hey there, tech enthusiasts! As a CPU cooler supplier, I've seen my fair share of cooling issues. One of the most common questions I get is, "How do I check if my CPU cooler is working properly?" Well, you're in the right place. In this blog, I'll walk you through some simple ways to figure that out.

1. Listen for the Fan

The first and easiest way to check if your CPU cooler is working is by listening to the fan. Most CPU coolers have a fan that spins to move air over the heatsink. When your computer is running, you should hear a gentle whirring sound coming from the cooler.

If you don't hear anything, it could mean that the fan isn't spinning. This might be due to a loose connection, a broken fan motor, or some other mechanical issue. You can try opening up your computer case and visually inspecting the fan. If it's not spinning, you might need to replace it.

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2. Check the Temperature

Another important way to determine if your CPU cooler is working is by checking the CPU temperature. You can use software tools like HWMonitor or Core Temp to monitor the temperature of your CPU.

Under normal usage, your CPU temperature should stay within a reasonable range. For most CPUs, a temperature between 30 - 50 degrees Celsius (86 - 122 degrees Fahrenheit) when idle is normal. When you're running more demanding applications like games or video - editing software, the temperature might rise to 60 - 80 degrees Celsius (140 - 176 degrees Fahrenheit).

If your CPU temperature is consistently higher than these ranges, it could be a sign that your CPU cooler isn't working efficiently. This could be due to a clogged heatsink, a malfunctioning fan, or improper installation of the cooler.

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3. Look for Physical Damage

Physical damage to the CPU cooler can also affect its performance. Check the heatsink for any bent fins. Bent fins can restrict the airflow over the heatsink, reducing its cooling efficiency. You can try using a pair of tweezers to carefully straighten the fins if they're only slightly bent.

Also, check the fan blades for any signs of damage. If a fan blade is broken or chipped, it can cause the fan to vibrate or not spin properly. In such cases, you'll likely need to replace the fan.

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4. Check the Mounting

Proper mounting of the CPU cooler is crucial for its performance. If the cooler isn't mounted correctly, it won't make good contact with the CPU, which can lead to poor heat transfer.

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When you install a CPU cooler, you need to make sure that it's firmly attached to the CPU socket. There are usually screws or clips that hold the cooler in place. Check if these are tightened properly.

Also, make sure that the thermal paste between the CPU and the cooler is applied correctly. Thermal paste helps to fill in the tiny gaps between the CPU and the cooler, improving heat transfer. If the thermal paste has dried out or wasn't applied evenly, it can cause the CPU temperature to rise.

5. Monitor System Performance

A malfunctioning CPU cooler can also affect your system's overall performance. If your computer starts to slow down, freeze, or crash frequently, it could be because the CPU is overheating due to a faulty cooler.

When the CPU gets too hot, it might throttle its performance to prevent damage. This means that your computer won't be able to run applications as fast as it should. So, if you notice a significant drop in performance, it's a good idea to check your CPU cooler.

Conclusion

Checking if your CPU cooler is working properly is essential for the health and performance of your computer. By listening to the fan, monitoring the temperature, looking for physical damage, checking the mounting, and monitoring system performance, you can easily determine if your cooler is doing its job.

If you find that your CPU cooler isn't working well, don't worry. We're here to help. We offer a wide range of high - quality CPU coolers that are designed to keep your CPU cool and your system running smoothly. Whether you're a casual user or a hardcore gamer, we have the right cooler for you.

If you're interested in purchasing our CPU coolers or have any questions about them, feel free to reach out for a procurement discussion. We're always happy to assist you in finding the best cooling solution for your needs.

References

  • HWMonitor official documentation
  • Core Temp user guide
  • General knowledge on CPU cooling from industry experts

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