Water cooling: replace the fan - how it works

Most water cooling systems come from the factory with noisy ventilation. We show you how to replace the fan and replace it with a quieter model.

You have to consider this before the exchange

Please note that these instructions only apply to compact water cooling systems.

Note the general air flow in your housing. You should always take the warm air outside, so you need to attach the fans accordingly.
Get the right fine tools and, above all, the right fans.
In addition, the same rules do not apply to fans of water cooling as, for example, to case fans.
First of all, you have to find fans of the right size.
Most water cooling systems are equipped with either two or one fan. Please refer to your water cooling manual for the size of this.
Mostly the size is 120 or 140 mm. It depends on the radiator you are using.
In general, when choosing the fans, the fans should have the highest possible static pressure and the largest possible flat blades. Due to the higher pressure, more warm air can be forced through the radiator and thus cooled.
An example of good radiators for water cooling are the Riing LED fans from Thermaltake or fans from Corsair.
When choosing the fans, keep an eye on the decibel number if the volume is important to you.
However, if you almost always wear a headset, the volume should not play a major role. You can also consider louder fans here.

If you have selected suitable fans for your case, the further process is very easy.

You should always take precautions. This includes a provided tub for the base and a switched off computer.
In the picture we have marked the screws with a red square.
You must remove these screws with the fine tool so that the fans can be replaced.
Be sure to catch the screws directly in one hand so that they do not fall into the housing.
If the old fans are outside, you only have to install the new fans according to the same principle.

If you own a custom water cooling system, there are a few things you need to consider before swapping.

You should definitely switch off the pump and the entire PC before replacing.
In order not to run the risk of water getting into the housing, simply unscrew the corresponding base.
This is possible, for example, with the CPU socket on which the water cooling hoses are attached.
Then place it in a small tub. If necessary, water can drain off there.
It is important that you have good access to the fans in the radiator.
So it could be that you have to remove the entire water cooling for a replacement. But that depends on where you placed the radiator and how you regulate the air flow in your case.

For detailed information on water cooling and other tips and tricks, take a look at our workshop. We have everything you need there.