A water block is a component used for liquid cooling inside a computer. Like an active heat sink, water blocks are placed on components (e.g., CPU or GPU) to transfer heat to a radiator that removes heat from the computer. Water blocks can be installed on a motherboard using thermal paste and screws.

Water blocks work using a metal plate made of a thermal conductor like copper, to transfer the heat from the CPU or GPU. This plate connects to a chamber with two hoses attached. One hose brings in cold water, while the other removes hot water created by the hardware.

Some GPU manufacturers produce graphics cards with built-in water blocks, allowing you to connect them to your existing water cooling setup when upgrading your computer.

Hardware terms, TDP

  • How to install a computer processor.
  • Computer cooling companies.
  • Heat sink and fan help and support.