E8400 Heat Problems

[30rock]

I have now had an E8400 for about 2 years. I remember checking the temperatures when I first set up my computer and was not concerned (don't remember the exact temperatures). I haven't really checked since then (maybe a dumb move) but recently did. I found that my E8400 is running at 50 (core 1) and 51 (core2) at idle and upwards of 68 (core 1) and 65 (core 2) under load according to Core Temp. I get similar readings in Real Temp. I am using the stock heatsink atm.

Because of this I have 2 questions.
1. Is it likely I have caused permanent damage running at such temperatures long term?
2. If so how much? aka a need to replace the CPU
3. If not, do I need to get a new heatsink / is this still safe as long as I don't overclock, and if so how much should I expect this to decrease my CPU's life?

Thanks

 

[MagickMan]

No, you haven't damaged the CPU. TJ max for the E8400 is 100C and Tcase max is 72C, and it's probably safe to run it at 70C for extended periods of time. With the stock HS/fan it will likely run out it's life expectancy in your PC without any worries. Now, if you want lower temps or plan on OCing, go ahead and grab a better inexpensive HS/fan like the Hyper 212+ for about $30, it's not a bad idea. It'll likely be quieter than what you've got now and may give you more peace of mind. Barring that, maybe you could just clean off the dried up compound on the CPU and heatsink and put on a fresh application. It would likely bring temps down.

 

[30rock]

okay great. thanks for the input and quick response i will sleep much better...

 

[alyarb]

your temps are within the safe range, but they are still abnormal. our 45nm duals that run the stock fan idle at 36 and load at 50. how is the airflow in your case and what are the ambient temps?

 

[richierich1212]

Probably need some new thermal paste

 

[alfa147x]

Probably need some new thermal paste

This is probably the case

 

[Informant X]

I think the solution is just dust and crap in your computer. I have the same CPU with stock HSF and no issues. I know that recently after having my puter about a year, my ambient case temp climbed up over 100 F. Also my 4870 started to freeze during games. The solution? Get a can of canned air and thoroughly clean ur case and head sinks and fans. I blew out a TON of crap from my computer. Now no more 4870 freezes, and my Ambient case temp dropped around 10-15 F.

 

[Duvie]

Needs a good reapp of thermal paste and clean the heatsink and fan of dust and you likely will be back to 40's at idle and 60's under load....which would be norm for stock E8400 with stock HSF