How often does something like ASII need reapplying?

[SouthernBred]

Does the heatsink need to be cleaned and Arctic Silver II need to be "replaced" ever? If yes, and standard on how often?

I'm just curious. My XP 1600+ was idling at about 43C, but now the Alabama late-June has it idling at 47C and it led me to wonder if I'll see a gradual increase over time and need to clean and reapply ASII?

Thanks.

 

[LostHiWay]

You shouldn't need to ever reapply it. The temp increase is normal in the summer because your ambient temp has increased.

 

[Kindjal]

Thank goodness - I can't imagine tearing my computer apart every 6 months or so to change the AS. I would rather change my dub's oil than attempt that (much greater chance of me breaking the computer than breaking my car).

 

[RagManX]

I change mine every Monday evening...

Just kidding, of course. I have never replaced AS on any heatsink I've placed, unless I was taking the heatsink off for something else. I know a lot of people who say you have to re-apply it every 3-6 months, but I've not noticed any difference in my temps when I go over that.

RagManX

 

[FlowerMan]

I replace my thermal compound at least every 6 months.

 

[FlippyBoy]

the only thing that could cause a temp increase (that i can think of), with all else being equal, would be a dust buildup in your fans blocking air or restricting the rotation of them. if that was the case, then a $6 can of compressed air will do the trick in 5 mins.

 

[SouthernBred]

Yeah, reading through these threads, I thought of the dust too.

Thanks for the info everyone.

 

[kevinthenerd]

If some people replace their heat sink compound every 6 months, will there be any problem leaving it on for several years? I often deal with obsolete computers, and I was just thinking about whether this stuff will cause problems when it lands in the home of some poor family who can't afford the latest and greatest. Any comments?

 

[KennyH]

Well, I would let you know but I am changing parts just about every two to three months.