How to Reduce CPU Temperature? [2023]

When a computing system gets overheated, it’s most of the time happening due to the heat that is produced in the CPU or central processing unit. The processor gets heated which not only increases the overall computer’s temperature but also affects the performance capabilities. No doubt, a CPU is responsible for handling all the ins and outs of the system and supervising the other elements like volatile memory, graphics cards, and several others.

If you’re facing the same issues, this post is for you. To answer the question of how to reduce CPU temperature, we first need to find out the exact reason for the problem. Therefore, we have researched and found out all the possible reasons that may be causing the issues. In addition, you can read about the safer CPU temperature limits and then check numerous suggestions and ways to control the processor’s temperature easily and effectively.

How can I check the temp of my CPU?

Checking the CPU temperature is the first step to proceeding with the process of reducing and controlling thermal mismanagement. There are two ways that most users used to find the temperature: checking with built-in BIOS/UEFI or with software. If you want to know more about checking the temperature, you can read the post on how can I check the temp of my CPU, and understand the topic in depth.

Ideal temperature range: If your CPU has its temperature under 60°C, your system is in the ideal bracket. Any warmth below this limit falls in the best state–if you’re even feeling increased temperature, it’s not.

Increased temperature limits: If the temperature is between 60°C to 80°C, it’s probably time to start considering the things. In addition, anything above 90°C can cause some serious damage to the system.

Possible reasons for CPU temperature rise

There could be several reasons for the temperature rise of your system’s CPU but we have added most of them that were in our knowledge. You must read and identify which one is the exact reason for your problem and then check the possible solutions.

Overclocking: Every CPU has a rated base clock and boost clock speed. You can achieve any of the clock speeds between the base and boost clocks to deal with the load and usage. But we often modify the processor’s working and take the overclocking up to a level for which the chip isn’t made. If you’re doing so, this may be the reason for the temperature rise.

Excessive use: Another reason for the temperature increase could be excessive use. If you’re using the computer all day, no doubt, it will get some heat and its temperature will increase. You can also put this factor under the umbrella of the above factor, overclocking, since it’s also a kind of excessive use. In both cases, more use than what the manufacturer intended can be a reason for the processor’s temperature increase.

Thin Computer: The trend of building smaller PCs and having a slim laptop is increasing day by day. But having these systems are riskier for temperature increase since there are fewer fans and smaller heatsink but the same powerful processor. The system is not that effective to tackle the heat and temperature increase in such cases and thermal mismanagement may occur.

Dust particles: If you’re using the computing system for a long time but without any cleaning, there are chances of dust buildup in it. It causes the temperature to increase by blocking the airflow and reducing the fan movements. In addition, when the heat sinks and all the other rig’s elements are covered in dust, there are very less chances of proper heat flow and airflow.

Aging hardware: The life span of the processor can be a reason for temperature increase. If you have recently bought a computer, then this doesn’t apply to you. But if you’re using the same system for years then this can be a reason for thermal mismanagement. Chances are that the thermal paste of the system wouldn’t be working properly and causing excessive heat.

Tips to keep CPU temperature down

There are several ways and tips to lower the CPU temperature increase and maintain it at an optimal level. We have tried possibly all of them and added some applicable methods below. If you know the reason for the temperature increase then find a solution that is appropriate to solve the issue.

Use as intended: As I mentioned earlier that many users use the CPU beyond its capabilities causing thermal mismanagement. This tip is a perfect fit for such users. If a processor is made for basic types of uses, you shouldn’t use that to play games or do content creation. The solution is to buy a chip that is made for your type of usage and requirements.

Use a laptop stand: If you’re a laptop user, you can get help from a laptop stand to solve the issue. Many enthusiasts use the laptops while keeping them on their laps or on the sofas which block the vents given below–it causes the temperature to increase. You can use a laptop stand to keep the laptops at an ideal position and enhance the airflow.

Clean your PC: If you’re using a computer for a long time, chances are there that dust is blocking airflow vents and reducing the airflow. Dust build-up in the PC case or any other elements causes the temperature to increase and hurt the performance. You must clean that dust. Remember, you can use a dust rag and a disposable compressed air duster to clean the interior and exterior.

Reapply the thermal paste: The next step after cleaning the system is to remove the previously applied thermal paste and replace that with a new one. You can read how to apply thermal paste, to get more details. Apart from that, replacing the solder paste with a new one can increase the heat transfer rate which ultimately boosts heat dissipation and reduces the CPU’s temperature.

Fix the cable management: Bad cable management doesn’t have much impact on CPU temperature as the previous factor had, but still it’s worth discussing. If the cables are touching the CPU or any other element, these may catch fire or increase the overall temperature being plastic. Moreover, unused or bulk cables can decrease airflow by blocking the ways.

Upgrade CPU cooler: If you have applied all the tips given above but are still facing the same problem then it’s time to upgrade the CPU cooler. You can go for water cooling for more precise results but a good-quality air-based cooler can also do its job. If you haven’t bought a cooler before, you can get help from this post. Read the post and buy a new cooler for your system.

Use more fans: We know that proper airflow is one of the most important ways to reduce the temperature of the CPU and overall system. Many of the PC cases have some dedicated slots to mount new fans to increase the airflow. If your case had those mounts, put more fans into them and make the cooling more effective.

Get a new PC case: If you tried all the methods given above to solve the issue and you’re still facing the same thing, then this could be your final step. Getting a new PC case can solve all the issues related to thermal mismanagement. Make sure that this has an effective airflow and an adequate number of fan mountings for expansion purposes.

Conclusion

A CPU is the main brain of a computer and any impact on its performance affects the overall system’s performance. The most well-known threat to this component is its overheating or thermal mismanagement. Temperature increases above 60°C, the safer bracket, can immediately affect the CPU’s speeds and capabilities. So, we need to make sure that the chip isn’t getting hotter by any type of inappropriate means and has adequate thermal management to get optimal output.

In today’s topic, how to reduce CPU temperature, we have tried our best to introduce you to every factor you may need during the process. There are several reasons for temperature increases like dust, excessive use, blocked air vents, and more. For every issue, there are certain solutions that we have discussed in detail in the above section. You must apply those ones by one to get ideal thermal management results.

Arslan Ashraf

CPUs & CPU Cooler Expert

Arslan Ashraf is a dedicated tech writer with a rich background in Computer Science and five years of experience in the field. While pursuing his Bachelor's degree from Virtual University, he has honed his expertise in CPUs and CPU Coolers. His ability to simplify complex technological concepts has made him a valuable resource for a wide audience. Driven by passion, Arslan remains at the forefront of industry trends, delivering expert insights that continue to enlighten his readers.