Our GENESIS desktops utilize the CORSAIR Hydro X custom cooling loop to cool the CPU and sometimes the GPU. Since this loop is fully custom, it requires special coolant and regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Periodic maintenance is essential to keep your Hydro X cooling loop in peak condition, especially when upgrading components. Luckily, our parent company, CORSAIR, provides helpful resources for maintaining your custom liquid loop.

Important Note:

If you accidentally spill coolant on any PC components while the system is powered off, do not panic. Clean the spill with paper towels and let your PC dry in a well-ventilated area for a few days before powering it back on.

Step 1: Draining the Cooling Loop

Before starting any maintenance, the first step is to drain the existing coolant from the loop.

What you'll need:

• Paper towels: To catch and prevent coolant from dripping onto other components.
• A container: To hold the drained coolant.

Steps:

1. Attach tubing to the reservoir: If possible, use a tube with a valve to attach to the stop-gap in the reservoir.
2. Loosen the stop plug: This will help the coolant flow more easily.
   • Remember to re-tighten the stop plug before tilting the system or using compressed air.
3. Tilt the system: Gently tilt your system to guide any remaining coolant into the reservoir.
4. Disconnect tubes from fittings: Have paper towels ready to catch any coolant that drips out when disconnecting tubes.
5. Use compressed air (optional): If there’s still some coolant left, use an electronic air compressor to flush out the remaining coolant. Ensure all ports are sealed except the one draining into your container.

Step 2: Removing Components for Maintenance

After draining the coolant, remove the components that need maintenance or replacement.

Tips:

• Place paper towels under components: When removing tubes or fittings, place paper towels underneath to catch any drips.
• Disconnect all power and RGB wires: Before removing the DPU block, disconnect all cables and check for any leftover coolant inside the block, emptying it into the container.

Step 3: Installing New Tubing and Hardware

Once the old components have been removed, install the new tubing, fittings, or any other hardware you’re replacing.

Tips:

• Double-check that all fittings are adequately sealed.
• Please ensure any tubes are attached to their respective fittings to avoid leaks later.

Step 4: Flushing Out Old Coolant

If you've previously used a colored coolant and plan to switch to a different color, thoroughly flush out the old coolant before adding the new one. If you’ve used clear coolant before, you can skip this step.

Steps to flush the system:

1. Fill the loop with distilled water: This will help rinse out any leftover coolant.
2. Run the pump using a 24-pin ATX jumper: Power the pump to circulate the water through the system.
3. Drain the distilled water: Use the same method you used to drain the coolant earlier.
4. Repeat as needed: You may need to repeat this process multiple times to flush out any remnants of the old color thoroughly.
   • Tip: Use an electronic air compressor to help flush out the loop more thoroughly.

Step 5: Filling with New Coolant

Once the loop is flushed and cleaned, it's time to add the new coolant.

Steps:

1. Fill the reservoir with coolant: Pour the new coolant into the reservoir.
2. Run the pump: Allow the pump to circulate the coolant through the loop.
3. Eliminate air pockets: If you notice air bubbles, gently tilt the system from side to side while the pump is running to release trapped air.
   • Please ensure all openings in the cooling loop are adequately sealed to avoid spills.

After filling the loop and clearing air pockets, your custom cooling loop should be ready.

Maintenance Tips:

• Coolant replacement: For optimal performance, replace the coolant every 12 months. If using opaque or dyed coolants, more frequent replacement (every 6 months) may be necessary.
• Inspect fittings regularly: Check for signs of leaks or wear, especially after upgrading components.