Why is My Graphics Card So Hot?

As important as a graphics card is to your system’s performance they are among the top three components of a computer system that generate a high amount of heat. Overheating of graphics cards can lead to several problems both in the computer such as forced shut down when running a graphic-themed program.

Although graphics card and graphics processing units are built with ventilation systems such as fans, heat sinks, or air filters to get rid of excess heat, the temperature rise is just second nature to graphics cards and this is quite normal but when it becomes very hot on several occasions, then there is a problem. 

The type of the application being processed determines to a large extent the temperature of the graphics card and while the most common reason for a graphic card to be too hot is because of the heavy workload on the system, there are other reasons too such as: 

Dirty or Broken Fans

A dirty or broken fan either in the computer or the graphic processing unit where the graphics card is situated can cause an insufficient amount of airflow to be distributed and thus, making the graphic card hot. That is why it is important to clean the computer case fans and the fans carefully to prevent dirt from building up. 

Overclocking

This is the most common reason why a graphics card becomes very hot and it is largely a result of the heavy workload being processed on the graphics card. While it is advantageous in graphics performance and frame rendering, continuous overclocking strains the graphics card, causes overheating, and can affect the lifespan of the graphics card.

Outdated graphic Software 

Outdated graphic software can lead to incompatibility with the graphics card model and as such, causing it to overheat. 

Inefficient Thermal Paste

Sadly, some manufacturers do not use a highly efficient thermal paste to facilitate the transfer of heat to the heat sink and this can also cause the graphics card to overheat. It is recommended that the thermal paste should be changed periodically to prevent the build-up of heat which is detrimental both to the graphics card and other computer components.

Conclusion 

Overheating of graphics cards is largely a result of poor airflow and this can be prevented by efficiently utilizing the solution provided by manufacturers. Of course, this can be done by understanding the fan model ( either an open fan model, a blower model) built into the GPU and how it can be best positioned to deliver optimal airflow.

It can also be prevented by installing air filters and also by using Nano-molecule or the silver-based thermal paste on the heat sink. They have proven to be highly efficient and are highly durable.

Conclusively, a hot graphics card can be cooled by using the techniques as directed by the graphics card manufacturer, as well as not exceeding a manufacturer’s recommended temperature for a very long period.