Monitoring CPU temperature

If you think your CPU is going high temperature, here’s some steps how to monitor CPU temperature in real time. The app we are using for today is called HWInfo and you can download it from HERE.

Before downloading the application, mare sure you choose the right app for your pc — 32 bit or 64 bit. In most of the cases 64bit systems are used.

After downloading the application (either installer or portable version – last one doesnt need installation) just install it or open it in case you downloaded the portable version. After opening the application, you will see this pop-up on your screen (see image below).

Make sure you check the box called “sensors only” if you need to monitor your CPU temperature. (check picture below)

Now, once you have ticked the box “sensors only” will be opening the monitoring stats for your whole CPU settings (wattage, clock speed, usage,etc).

We will have to monitor 2 things in here

  • Core Temperatures
  • CPU Package (see pictures below).

On the top side of this window will have 4 tabs:

  • Current
  • Minimum
  • Maximum
  • Average

If you think your CPU temperature is too high, check the tab “maximum” to check what was the maximum temperature on your CPU.

Here’s also few factors that will cause high CPU temperature.

  • Cooling System Issues: If your computer’s cooling system (fans, heat sinks, or liquid cooling) is not functioning properly, it can lead to insufficient heat dissipation, resulting in higher CPU temperatures.
  • Dust Accumulation: Dust buildup on cooling components can impede airflow, reducing their efficiency in dissipating heat. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain proper cooling.
  • Overclocking involves running the CPU at a higher clock speed than its default settings. While this can boost performance, it also generates more heat. Inadequate cooling or excessive overclocking can lead to higher temperatures.
  • The temperature of the environment in which your computer operates can impact CPU temperatures. If the room is hot, it becomes harder for the cooling system to keep the CPU temperature within optimal limits.
  • Malfunctioning or damaged cooling components, such as a failed fan or a malfunctioning pump (in liquid cooling systems), can contribute to higher CPU temperatures.
  • Intensive tasks and high CPU usage can generate more heat. Running demanding applications, background processes, or tasks that stress the CPU for extended periods can lead to increased temperatures.
  • Improperly Applied Thermal Paste: Thermal paste is used between the CPU and the heatsink to ensure efficient heat transfer. If the thermal paste is improperly applied or has degraded over time, it can lead to poor thermal conductivity and higher temperatures.
  • Incorrect power settings in the BIOS or operating system may prevent the CPU from entering low-power states when idle, leading to unnecessary heat generation.
  • Incompatible or Outdated BIOS/UEFI Firmware:Sometimes, outdated or incompatible motherboard firmware (BIOS/UEFI) can lead to issues with power management and cooling. Updating the firmware may resolve such issues.

To address high CPU temperatures, consider the following actions

  • Check Cooling System: Ensure that fans are working, heatsinks are clean, and liquid cooling systems are functioning properly.
  • Optimize Airflow: Ensure good case airflow and consider adding case fans if necessary.
  • Reduce Overclocking: If you’ve overclocked your CPU, consider reverting to default settings to reduce heat generation.
  • Monitor Background Processes: Identify and manage processes that contribute to high CPU usage.
  • Check Thermal Paste: If applicable, check the thermal paste application and reapply if necessary.
  • Update Firmware: Keep your motherboard’s firmware (BIOS/UEFI) updated to the latest version.

2 Comments

  1. Thanks, very useful details. I have downloaded for my pc and says 72 degrees which i think is ok for gaming.

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