How to Reapply Thermal Paste on a CPU

Tools & Parts Needed

1

Power Off and Unplug

Fully shut down the PC, unplug the power cord, and hold the power button for 5 seconds to discharge capacitors.
2

Open the PC Case

Remove the side panel screws and slide the case panel off to access the internals.
3

Remove the CPU Cooler

Unscrew or unclip the cooler mount in a cross pattern to apply even pressure — then gently lift away.
4

Clean Old Thermal Paste from CPU

Apply isopropyl alcohol to the lint-free cloth and gently wipe the old paste from the CPU IHS.
5

Clean the Cooler Contact Plate

Clean the cooler base plate with isopropyl alcohol to remove all residual paste.
6

Let Both Surfaces Dry

Wait 2–3 minutes for the alcohol to fully evaporate before applying new paste.
7

A pea-sized dot in the centre is enough — cooler pressure spreads it evenly. Manual spreading traps air bubbles and works worse than less paste.

Apply New Thermal Paste

Apply a pea-sized (3–4mm) dot of thermal paste to the centre of the CPU IHS.
8

Reattach the CPU Cooler

Lower the cooler straight down without sliding, then secure in a cross pattern for even pressure.
9

Power On and Check Temperatures

Boot the system and use free software like HWInfo64 to verify temperatures are in normal range.

Too much thermal paste is worse than too little — a pea-sized dot is enough.

Never run the PC without a CPU cooler attached — even for a few seconds.

Anti-static protection is essential — touch the PC case before touching any components.