Sudden CPU Temp Rise

[Valkezar]

I've just recently reseated my Zalman CNPS7700, having removed it to clean up the wiring.
I covered all procedures, cleaning the CPU cap and heatsink base thoroughly using
rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth. Reapplied Arctic Silver 5, placed the heatsink
back on VERY carefully and tightened the screws enough so that the heatsink won't budge
when tapped or when the case is moved.

Here's the problem:
Before, my CPU was running at 42C idle and 51C load
Now, it's running ~48C idle and godknows how much load (too afraid to test)
Everything was done the way I've always done it, this is the first time
that I've encountered a spike like this. What could've gone wrong?

EDIT: There are some tiny holes on the HS's plate, they look like holes a termite would
make through wood (that can't be good)

 

[FreddyLich]

It's probably that you've put too much AS5 on the CPU/Heatsink.


OR, when you reapplied the HS, it moved the Paste again. What I recommend is doing the process again AND look for scratchs under the HS. If there is any big enough scratch, your HS is broken. My HS did stop working like this.

 

[Valkezar]

Oh my... I did realize a couple of scratches here and there on the bottom of the HS and
some tiny needle-point decay holes here and there. Could that really break it?

 

[vanvock]

I think it would have to be scratched pretty bad to be ruined. If it is scratched check out the thread on lapping posted by GalvanizedYankee. The AS5 also needs several usage cycles to settle in so temps should drop somewhat over time.

 

[Valkezar]

Ok, lapping... is a bit overdoing, although I did take the time to hand-check everything and I noticed my PSU was hot!
In fact, the air inside the case was much warmer near the PSU than elsewhere (and it's right next to the HS/CPU).
Maybe that could be the problem? It definitely doesn't feel as cool as it should, and the exhaust air coming out of its
fan is pretty hot too, has anyone else experienced higher temps due to PSU heating?

EDIT: Please don't post here anymore, I found the problem.
For the curious, it was the airflow in my case after re-wiring.
After moving some components around and sweeping some
cables to the side of the case, I dropped the CPU temp to 42C!