How to Install Liquid Cooling in a Computer

A liquid cooling system for your computer is essential to maintain the integrity of your computer processor. Liquid cooling compensates for the heat buildup caused by high-speed computer processors and increases in clock speed. Unlike conventional cooling systems which use cooling fans and heat sinks, liquid cooling is quieter. A liquid cooling system has two major moving parts, the impeller and the exterior fan. The impeller is a fan responsible for circulating the liquid coolant into a series of cooling tubes running through and around the computer processor. The exterior fan circulates air around the cooling tubing.

Step 1 - Purchase a Liquid Cooling System

There are many types of liquid cooling systems you may purchase at your local computer shop. A liquid cooling system is composed of cooling solution, tubing, brackets, fans and the impeller. Ask the computer technician for the ideal liquid cooling system for your computer.

Step 2 - Prepare the Computer

With a screwdriver, undo the screws located at the back of your computer to remove its cover. Remove all the removable parts in your computer such as video cards, sound cards, modems and other peripheral devices. Disconnect all the power supply wires attached to your motherboard. Next remove the motherboard from your computer with the screwdriver.

Step 3 - Remove the Existing Cooling System

Place your motherboard gently on a clean and clutter-free working table. Locate the computer processor. Remove all existing cooling devices, such as a heat sink or fan, attached to the top of your processor. You can do this by unscrewing the existing cooling system or disengaging the mounting clips.  

Step 4 - Attach the Mounting Station

Attach the mounting brackets of your liquid cooling system to the processor and then attach the mounting station. The mounting station should be directly attached to your computer processor. Once you have attached the mounting station, screw the motherboard back into your computer case. The mounting station is composed of outtake and intake valves for the liquid coolant you will be using.

Step 5 - Attach the Impeller or Radiator

Attach the impeller or radiator of your liquid cooling system to the front of your computer where your DVD drive is located. Slide the radiator into the expansion slots and screw the sides. The radiator will take two expansion slots, so make sure you have enough space.

Step 6 - Attach the Tubing

With a sharp scissor or pliers, cut the cooling tubes into their proper lengths. The cooling tubes must run from your radiator to the computer processor. Attach the tubes into the outtake and intake valves found on the radiator and processor.

Step 7 - Add the Cooling Solution

Using a squirt bottle, add the cooling solution to the radiator. Be careful not to spill liquid coolant on your motherboard. Attach all the peripheral devices and the power supply lines you removed in Step 2. Screw the computer cover back into its proper place.