Custom-cooling FAQ

• Does the loop order matter?
• Can I use Hydro X Series blocks with aluminum blocks/fittings?
• Can I run this as a standalone part?
• Can I use tap water or distilled water as coolant?
• How do I clean the Hydro X Series components?
• How often do I need to change the fluid?
• Is the XL5 coolant non-conductive?
• Can I reuse the pre-applied thermal material on the XC or XG Series RGB Water Blocks for reinstallation?
• How many water blocks and radiators can one pump/reservoir combo support?

Does the loop order matter?

Since our pump/reservoir combo unit has both a pump and a reservoir, there’s no need to worry about the order of the remaining parts.

Can I use Hydro X Series blocks with aluminum blocks/fittings?

No, the Hydro X Series blocks use a cold plate made of nickel-plated copper. It should not be mixed with aluminum parts in a liquid cooling loop.

Can I run this as a standalone part?

No, the Hydro X Series is intended to be used as part of a complete custom cooling system, including the standalone pump and radiator.

Can I use tap water or distilled water as coolant?

You should never fill or flush your custom cooling system with tap water since tap water contains high levels of particulates and minerals that will damage and clog your system.

Distilled water can be used to flush the system and as a coolant, but you will need to add corrosion, biological, and scale inhibitors to ensure long-term use.

For the best performance, protection, and longevity of the cooling system, we recommend using pre-mixed fluid with corrosion, biological, and scale inhibitors, such as the Corsair XL5 Performance Coolant.

How do I clean the Hydro X Series components?

To clean the insides of the components, flush with distilled water. To clean the outside, use a lint-free cloth to remove marks or fingerprints.

How often do I need to change the fluid?

We recommend changing the fluid in your custom cooling system every 12 months to remove particulate build-up and ensure optimal thermal performance.

Is the XL5 coolant non-conductive?

Though the XL5 coolant has a very low conductivity level, no coolant can be deemed “non-conductive” since any coolant will slowly become conductive when put in contact with metal such as radiators and water blocks.

While it is technically correct to say on the bottle that the coolant is non-conductive, it will slowly become conductive once it is added into the custom cooling system.

Can I reuse the pre-applied thermal material on the XC or XG Series RGB Water Blocks for reinstallation?

Reinstallation of water blocks will require that you clean off the pre-applied thermal paste and apply a new layer of thermal material. However, the thermal pads fitted to the GDDR and VRMs can be reused.

How many water blocks and radiators can one pump/reservoir combo support?

This unit delivers a head pressure of 3.9 meters and is powerful enough to provide adequate flow through a custom cooling loop of at least 4 water blocks and 3 radiators.