What happens if I don't reapply thermal paste for a long time?

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Hey everyone! I’m pretty much a newbie when it comes to PC maintenance, so please bear with me. After some troubleshooting, I think my CPU heatsink might be the culprit behind this annoying clicking noise I’m hearing. I read a lot online and many suggested it could be due to some fan issues, but I just learned that thermal paste is a thing, and I haven’t changed mine in 6 years! I just ordered some thermal paste and isopropyl wipes that should arrive soon. In the meantime, can I still use my PC to game and render videos in Premiere Pro while waiting to apply the new paste?

1 Answer

TechWhiz_99 -

The clicking noise can often come from a wire brushing against the fan blades, dust buildup, or even a broken fan. It’s always a good idea to clean your PC first to see if you still hear the noise afterward. If the clicking persists, you might want to look into it a bit more.

GamerNinja_64 -

Got it, thanks! But can I even turn on my PC without reapplying thermal paste yet? I really can’t afford to replace it right now.

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