Keeping an oveheating CPU cool

[Kekewy]

I have an Athlon Phenom X4 processor that has decided to start overheating and turning my computer off. I need to get the stupid thing cooled off before it fries itself, but funds are a bit tight at the moment so I'm uncertain about the most cost effective way to fix this issue. I'm using the stock heatsink, with a much higher grade thermal paste. I'm thinking my best bet is to replace the heat sink, but I'm not sure what to replace it with.

Part of me wants to go with water cooling but price is definitely a concern there. I really only have about 100$ to play with. I know I can get a good heatsink for that price, but I'm not sure what brand to get. Ninja was one of the best last time I checked but that was years ago.

Any advice on the best and cheapest solution to this problem is appreciated.

 

[dma0991]

CM Hyper212 Evo. It works well and cheap. If you aren't overclocking it or just a minor overclock, spend less on expensive heatsinks and the one mentioned will fit the bill.

 

[superccs]

For $100 you should be able to get a new cpu and HSF...

 

[DSF]

Decided to start overheating?

I'm assuming you've cleaned out all the dust, made sure the fans are all spinning properly, including the PSU fan, etc.?

 

[BrightCandle]

Presumably this problem started recently. Its more likely a problem with dust or a failed fan than something designed wrong. Find the failure and you'll be able to repair it quickly and cheaply.

 

[blastingcap]

DSF and Bright are right. If it's a sudden problem it probably means a broken fan or too much dust or something like that, in which case you could just replace the fan. The problem is that replacing a fan for a crummy cooler costs what, $10 including shipping? If so, you might as well just get a MUCH better heatsink that comes with a decent fan to boot. The Cooler Master Hyper 212+ is on sale for $20 after rebate at newegg often, and it's WAY better that the stock cooler. If you've been surviving with the stock cooler, then all you will need is the 212+. If you do heavy overclocking, step up to the Hyper 212 EVO for $5-10 more as that is a few degrees better.

 

[Kekewy]

All fans are dust free and spinning properly. That was the first thing that I checked. I've had some over heating issues in the past, when I first moved into my new place which unfortunately completely lacks air conditioning. Last year, pulling the side off and using a table top fan did the trick just fine when the weather got too hot. This year, the damn thing is still shutting down on me and the heat sink is almost burn-you hot to the touch, which is why I'm wanting to replace it.