1) Install a Graphics Card Cooler: Investing in a dedicated graphics card cooler is one of the most effective ways to prevent your graphics card from overheating. Graphics card coolers are relatively inexpensive and come with mounting kits that allow you to securely affix the cooler to your graphics card. It is important to carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions before installing your graphics card cooler.
2) Ensure Adequate Airflow: Installing a graphics card cooler will also help with adequate airflow, but it is not the only factor. Take the time to consider your tower’s ventilation system. Make certain that it is free from dust and dirt and that there is ample room for air to travel. Also, consider upgrading the size or type of fan in your tower. For instance, if the stock fans in your tower are only 80mm in diameter, consider replacing them with larger 120mm or 140mm fans. The larger fans can generate more airflow than the smaller ones.
3) Monitor Your Card’s Temperature: The best way to ensure proper performance is to keep an eye on your graphics card’s temperature. Using programs such as GPU-Z, Afterburner, and SpeedFan, you can monitor your card’s temperature in real time. If the temperature looks too high, adjust the settings and take preventive measures to cool down the card.
4) Upgrade Your Case: Consider buying a larger case or a case with better airflow capabilities. Make sure that the sides, top and bottom of the case have grates or holes for the airflow. Try and get a case that has space for extra fans. If possible, mount a fan on top of the case to draw heat away from the graphics card.
5) Underclock Your GPU: Underclocking your graphics card can help reduce its temperature. This means adjusting the settings, so that the card does not function at its maximum level. This can reduce the strain on the card and prevent it from overheating. To do this, you will need to use a program such as MSI Afterburner.
6) Turn Off Unused GPUs: If you are using multiple GPUs, be sure to turn off the ones that you are not currently using. This will help reduce the strain on the active GPU, and also help keep the other cards cool.
7) Upgrade the Thermal Paste: Thermal paste is used to fill the tiny gaps between the GPU and the heatsink, which helps conduct heat away from the GPU. Over time, the thermal paste can become dry and lose its effectiveness. Make sure you regularly change out the thermal paste to keep temperatures low.
8) Dust the Graphics Card Regularly: As dust accumulation leads to decreased airflow, be sure to clean your graphics card every few months to get rid of any accumulated dust. Use a small brush and an air can to carefully wipe away any dust or debris that may have accumulated on the GPU.
9) Adjust the Fan Settings: Most modern graphics cards come with adjustable fan settings. You can adjust the fan speed and make sure that it runs faster when the GPU temperature starts to increase. Make sure you adjust the settings to ensure that the fan runs at a safe speed.
10) Upgrade Your Power Supply Unit: Finally, consider investing in a new power supply unit (PSU). A good quality PSU will be able to deliver enough power to your graphics card and other components without creating too much heat. It is important to invest in a quality PSU, as cheap ones tend to be less efficient and can cause additional heat.