Water cooling
CPU coolers
GPU blocks
Radiators
Pumps
Tanks
Fittings
Pipes
Liquids
Kits
Water cooling accessories
Tools
Useful when choosing
An open-loop water cooling system is the quietest and most efficient way to cool a powerful processor and graphics card, and it also turns the computer into a showcase. It requires more planning than ready-made AIO cooling, but offers complete freedom in choosing parts, colors, and the route of the tubing. Here are all the parts for your own water loop – blocks, radiators, pumps, reservoirs, fittings, tubing, liquids, and tools.
How to choose
- What you will cool. The CPU block must support the processor socket. GPU blocks are made for specific models of graphics cards and even for specific manufacturer boards.
- Radiator area. The more heat the parts emit, the larger the radiator you need. The processor alone handles 240 or 280 mm, while the processor and graphics card together require 360 mm or more.
- Pump and reservoir. D5 and DDC pumps are the standard. Combined pump and reservoir save space and make filling easier.
- Tubing. Soft tubing is easier to install and forgives mistakes. Hard tubing looks more impressive but requires bending with tools and precise measuring.
- Kit or individual parts. If you are making your first loop, a ready kit contains compatible parts and is the safest start.
What to watch out for
- Fittings must match the size of the tubing – the inner and outer diameters are important.
- Before the first startup, perform a leak test with the power to the other parts turned off.
- Do not mix copper and aluminum in one loop – this leads to corrosion.
- Check where in the case there is space for radiators and how thick they can be.
- Plan a drain valve at the lowest point – changing the liquid becomes much easier.
Compatibility
Almost all water cooling parts use the standard G1/4 thread, so blocks, fittings, and reservoirs from different brands connect to each other. However, be careful with the CPU block socket, the exact model of the graphics card for the GPU block, and the diameter of the tubing relative to the fittings. It is better not to mix liquids from different manufacturers. For installation and maintenance, tools will help you – for cutting and bending tubing and for leak testing.
