I’ll admit – this is NOT an advised way of cooling your Macbook 2015, and you should NOT try it at home… But does it provide a tangible performance benefit?
Water cooling is a popular way of cooling high-performance PCs, and it can also be used to cool a MacBook. Water cooling can provide better cooling performance and quieter operation than traditional air cooling methods. In this blog post, we will explore how to set up a water cooling system for the MacBook 2015.
Step 1: Gather the Required Components
To set up a water cooling system for the MacBook 2015, you will need several components, including a water block, a pump, a radiator, tubing, coolant, and fittings. The water block is responsible for cooling the CPU and GPU, while the pump moves the coolant through the system. The radiator dissipates heat from the coolant, and the tubing connects all the components together. The fittings connect the tubing to the water block, pump, and radiator.
Step 2: Disassemble the MacBook
Before installing the water cooling system, you will need to disassemble the MacBook to access the CPU and GPU. This involves removing the back cover, battery, and logic board. You will also need to remove the heatsink and fan assembly that is currently cooling the CPU and GPU.
Step 3: Install the Water Block
Once the MacBook is disassembled, you can install the water block. The water block should be placed over the CPU and GPU, and it should be secured using the provided mounting hardware. You should apply thermal paste to the CPU and GPU before installing the water block to ensure proper thermal conductivity.
Step 4: Install the Pump and Radiator
After installing the water block, you can install the pump and radiator. The pump should be mounted to the bottom of the MacBook, and the tubing should be connected to the inlet and outlet of the pump. The radiator should be mounted to the top of the MacBook, and the tubing should be connected to the inlet and outlet of the radiator.
Step 5: Connect the Tubing and Fittings
Once the water block, pump, and radiator are installed, you can connect the tubing and fittings. The tubing should be cut to the appropriate length and connected to the water block, pump, and radiator using the provided fittings. You should also install a drain valve at the lowest point in the system to make it easier to drain the coolant for maintenance.
Step 6: Fill the System with Coolant
After all the components are connected, you can fill the system with coolant. The coolant should be poured into the reservoir until it reaches the recommended fill level. You should also add a biocide or antimicrobial additive to prevent algae and bacteria growth in the system.
Step 7: Test the System
Before reassembling the MacBook, you should test the water cooling system for leaks and proper operation. You can do this by powering on the MacBook and monitoring the temperature of the CPU and GPU. You should also check for any leaks in the system.
Step 8: Reassemble the MacBook
Once you are satisfied that the water cooling system is functioning correctly, you can reassemble the MacBook. You should install the logic board, heatsink, and fan assembly, and then replace the battery and back cover.
Setting up a water cooling system for the MacBook 2015 can provide better cooling performance and quieter operation than traditional air cooling methods. However, it can be a complicated and time-consuming process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. If you are not comfortable with disassembling and modifying your MacBook, it may be best to leave water cooling to the professionals. Additionally, be sure to do your research and choose high-quality components to ensure that your water cooling system is reliable and effective.
Now we’ll explore the pros and cons of water cooling the MacBook 2015:
Pros
- Improved Performance: Water cooling can improve the performance of your MacBook by keeping the CPU and GPU at lower temperatures. Lower temperatures can result in higher clock speeds, which can improve your MacBook’s performance.
- Quieter Operation: Water cooling is quieter than air cooling, as it does not require fans to be running at high speeds. This can be beneficial for users who want a quieter MacBook.
- Better Aesthetics: Water cooling can look very aesthetically pleasing, as it involves clear tubing and colorful coolant. This can make your MacBook stand out from the crowd and give it a unique look.
- Customizable: Water cooling is highly customizable, allowing users to choose the components that best suit their needs. This can result in a more personalized and optimized MacBook cooling system.
Cons
- High Cost: Water cooling can be expensive, with the cost of components and installation adding up quickly. This can be a significant drawback for users who are on a tight budget.
- High Maintenance: Water cooling requires regular maintenance to ensure that the system is running smoothly. This can involve draining and refilling the coolant, checking for leaks, and cleaning the system.
- Increased Risk of Damage: Water cooling can pose a higher risk of damage to your MacBook if not installed correctly. Leaks and spills can damage your MacBook’s components, resulting in costly repairs.
- Reduced Portability: Water cooling can make your MacBook less portable, as it involves additional components that must be carried around. This can make it more difficult to use your MacBook on-the-go.
Conclusion
Water cooling the MacBook 2015 can provide many benefits, including improved performance, quieter operation, better aesthetics, and customizability. However, it also comes with its drawbacks, including high cost, high maintenance, increased risk of damage, and reduced portability. Ultimately, the decision to water cool your MacBook should be based on your individual needs and budget. If you are a performance enthusiast and have the budget and time to invest in water cooling, it can be a worthwhile investment. However, if you value portability and are on a tight budget, it may not be the best option for you. Regardless of your decision, be sure to do your research and consult with a professional before attempting to water cool your MacBook to ensure that you do it safely and effectively.