Troubleshooting High CPU Temperatures on a New Build

Hello, fellow tech enthusiasts!

Today, we’re going to explore a common concern among PC builders, particularly for those just starting their journey into the world of custom computers. A recent query caught my attention regarding the Ryzen 5 7600 CPU, which is consistently running at around 60 degrees Celsius when idle. This level may raise a few eyebrows, especially for those who are less experienced with hardware.

Understanding Idle Temperatures

For many users, a CPU temperature of 60 degrees Celsius while idle can sound alarming. Typically, idle temperatures should hover around the 30 to 40 degrees Celsius mark, depending on ambient room temperature and cooling solutions. In this case, even with minimal background processes running, the CPU is reporting a temperature that seems to be on the higher side.

Components at a Glance

The build features a Ryzen 5 7600 CPU, accompanied by a B650M Pro RS WIFI motherboard and a Radeon RX 7800XT GPU. While the GPU temperature appears much lower at around 44 degrees Celsius, the CPU’s elevated readings warrant further investigation.

Given that the CPU cooler was pre-installed with thermal paste applied from the factory, it’s encouraging that the assembly seems intact, especially after guidance from a more experienced friend during the build process. However, there are still several potential factors at play.

Factors to Consider

1. Dust Accumulation: If the system hasn’t seen a good cleaning in over a year, dust buildup could significantly hinder airflow and cooling efficiency. A thorough cleaning could be beneficial, as even a small layer of dust can increase temperatures by several degrees.

2. Thermal Paste Quality: While pre-applied thermal paste is convenient, its effectiveness can vary by brand and application. If the temperatures remain high after cleaning, consider reapplying high-quality thermal paste.

3. CPU Cooler Efficiency: The stock cooler may not always provide optimal cooling for high-performance CPUs, especially under load. If high temperatures consistently occur during gaming—like the reported 80-85 degrees Celsius when playing the RE4 Remake—it might be worth exploring aftermarket cooling solutions.

Next Steps

To diagnose and remedy this situation, I recommend the following:

• Clean Your System: Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove dust from all components, particularly fans and heatsinks.
• Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on temperatures during various tasks.