GPU Liquid Cooling Guide: 7 Considerations, Tips, and Tools

I. Introduction

If you think your GPU is not performing as you intend, or there is a gamer on the internet who has posted higher frame rates with the same graphics card, then you need liquid cooling. Did you know that water's specific heat capacity is over 3,500 times greater than air's? It means that you can store a lot more heat in a small volume of water in comparison to air. The property enables a compact liquid cooling system to provide an enormous heat removal capacity.

Modern GPUs can produce a lot of heat, surpassing 300W+ for performance-oriented versions. To ensure that the GPU does not overheat and the surrounding components, such as VRMs (Voltage Regulator Modules), remain cool, liquid cooling can be beneficial, especially in cases when users need to overclock their GPU to reach higher performance benchmarks.

All graphics cards come with an air cooling solution over their GPU. It can become loud and may disrupt your focus on work or gaming. In this article, we will provide key tips that users can follow to have a successful GPU liquid cooling setup.

II. Why Make the Switch to Liquid Cooling?

A. Enhanced Thermal Efficiency

Liquid cooling utilizes a water-based solution containing propylene glycol or, in some cases, ethanol glycol to transfer heat away from the GPU. The higher heat capacity of the liquid allows the GPU to operate at a lower temperature in comparison with the air-based solution. It results in higher boost clock speeds for extended periods.

B. Prevents Thermal Throttling

bursts of boosted clock speed can lead to thermal throttling. It is the mechanism that activates to protect the GPU die from overheating. It lowers performance to reduce current draw, consequently leading to lower heat production and temperatures. A high-performance liquid cooling solution can prevent thermal throttling.

C. Reduced Noise Levels

The size of the fans and the enclosed pump inside the water block lead to a reduction in noise levels. The use of larger, slower-spinning fans on a liquid cooling radiator moves higher air volume through the fins. In comparison, small air cooler fans can produce a high-pitched whine.

D. Aesthetics and Case Space

Liquid cooling is for gamers who prefer a minimalist look. The water block in liquid coolers can come with a digital display, which either shows the operating temperature of the GPU or a programmable display that displays graphics and other necessary information.

III. The 7 Key Considerations Before You Start

1. GPU Compatibility: Is Your Card Supported?

Whenever going for any product, take your time and have patience to research. Even if you have an enormous budget, gain all the information about product competitors. There are different sockets and sizes of GPU chips. Therefore, they may require varying fittings. Most graphics cards are made with reference design, while some can be custom-designed, which may require aftermarket fittings.

AIO solutions are designed with specific GPU models. Always check for compatibility with the model you have or aim to purchase.

2. AIO (All-in-One) vs. Custom Loop

There are typically two types of liquid cooling solutions: the AIO and the custom loop. Here are their key features:

• All-in-One (AIO) Solutions: These are the most convenient to install and maintain. They are prefitted solutions that are compatible with most PC cases. They are robust and come with flexible piping that allows liquid to flow between the CPU and radiator. However, they have limited tuning length and performance.

• Custom Liquid Cooling Loops: For more flexibility and customization, custom loops are the best. They can offer higher performance, aesthetic control, and multi-component cooling capability. Which means a single loop can cool a GPU, CPU, Storage Device, and motherboard chipset together. Some can offer RAM cooling as well. Their downside is a complex setup and a higher risk of leaks.

3. Radiator Size and Placement

GPU liquid cooling solutions are available with various radiator sizes. They can be 120mm, 240mm, and 360mm. A higher size means a bigger surface area for heat transfer. It also means there will be multiple fans on a single radiator. You will need a compatible PC case to house a radiator. The radiator is placed either on the front intake or the top exhaust configurations.

4. Budget and Cost

Always consider budget and cost when selecting a GPU cooler. The typical AIO kit will cost between $80 $200 USD. Whereas a custom loop can cost between $400 and $ 1000 USD. If you are not an enthusiast gamer or overclocker, consider an AIO solution with a compatible TDP for maximum value for money.

5. Case Clearance and Airflow

Fitting a liquid cooling kit can be challenging. It is crucial to verify that the radiator will fit within the PC case and that the tubing length is sufficient to reach the water block after installation. Moreover, the radiators need to allow air to flow in order to ensure effective heat transfer. Therefore, the air flow should contain fans blowing air into the PC case as much as there is leaving out of the PC case via the radiator fans. Ensure proper flow patterns and an obstruction-free path of air.

6. Warranty and Risk

There is no GPU that comes without a cooling system. Some GPU cooling manufacturers will use a liquid-cooled system instead of using air. Otherwise, most GPUs will feature a radiator and fan configuration. To install a liquid cooling system, it is essential to remove the pre-installed air cooling system. Remember, it will void its warranty, and in case of a leak, the graphics card can get damaged.

7. Required Skills and Experience

Installing an AIO cooling solution is convenient, and most users will install it without prior experience. Simply following the instruction manual is enough. In comparison, installing a custom loop requires an advanced skill set. You also need to be patient during the process and perform rigorous testing before attempting to put the liquid in. It's best to learn from YouTube videos or visit a local store that specializes in custom cooling loops to gain valuable insights. Being patient is key!

IV. Essential Tools for the Job

A. Basic Tools for All Installations

Some GPU liquid cooling manufacturers will provide basic tools in the box. However, most of them will need you to purchase the right tools to get the job done. Here is a list of tools you will need:

• Screwdrivers: Preferably a screwdriver with a swappable face between Phillips and flat head.
• Cleaning Supplies: Having isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth can help clean old thermal paste from components such as the top of the GPU or CPU.
• Thermal Paste & Pads: Fresh thermal paste for the GPU core and new thermal pads for memory and VRMs.

B. Advanced Tools for Custom Loops

For custom loops, three additional steps are required for bending and fitting acrylic tubing. These additional steps require advanced tools such as:

• Tubing Tools: A tubing cutter and a heat gun for bending PETG/acrylic tubing.
• Pressure Tester: An essential tool to check for leakages within the loop.
• Funnel and Fill Bottle: For easy and spill-free filling of the loop.

V. Tips for a Smooth Installation

• While disassembling the already installed air cooling system and heatsinks, keep track of all the screws, nuts, and components. It's best to make a video or take a picture of the steps.
• Thoroughly clean the surfaces before installing new components to avoid weak thermal bonding.
• Always perform the leak test. Custom loop leaks and have leaked for many users, which can ruin your investment.
• Use a pressure tester to check for leakages. If the loop can hold air, then it can also hold liquid.
• Use cable ties and proper routing to ensure an aesthetically neat build.
• Ensure that all the air bubbles have been extracted to avoid a reduction in heat transfer.

VI. Conclusion: A Rewarding Upgrade

GPU liquid cooling manufacturers have unlocked massive potential for gamers. For the same graphics card, gamers can have better performance and higher FPS. For some users, the AIO or custom loop cooling system can increase stability and eliminate thermal throttling. Overall, a GPU liquid cooling system will offer performance, quietness, and aesthetics, but requires careful planning and a budget.

Always remain patient and conduct thorough research to ensure compatibility, value for money, and a safe installation. Take your time and trust the process. You will eventually be rewarded with the most premium aesthetics and GPU performance.

For high-end AIO GPU cooling manufacturers, visit the ESGAMING lineup. They offer digital display, intelligent temperature control, ARGB synchronization with 16.8 million colors, and polymer-braided tubing for durability. We hope you find your next favorite GPU cooling system!