Coolants and fluids for PC water cooling loops, for filling a new custom loop or replacing the liquid in an existing one. The category has over 50 products, including items from Alphacool, EK Water Blocks, XSPC, Thermaltake and Aqua Computer.
How to choose a PC coolant
Ready-mixed or concentrate. A ready-mixed coolant goes straight into the loop, which makes it the simplest option for a first build. A concentrate has to be diluted with distilled water in the proportions the manufacturer states, and it pays off when you need a lot of liquid or change it often.
Clear or coloured. A clear liquid makes it easy to spot sediment or cloudiness, so you notice sooner when it is time to change it. Coloured coolants are chosen for looks, but some contain pigments or dyes that can settle in the narrow channels of water blocks over time. Read the manufacturer's notes before buying.
Compatibility with loop materials. Most loops contain copper, nickel-plated or brass parts, and sometimes aluminium. Aluminium combined with copper can cause galvanic corrosion, so such a loop needs a coolant with corrosion inhibitors that the manufacturer explicitly approves for aluminium. Also check that the liquid is suitable for acrylic parts and seals.
Volume and replacement interval. Buy enough to fill the radiators, reservoir and tubing, plus a small reserve for topping up. Most manufacturers advise changing the coolant every year or two, but the exact interval is given in the description of each product.
Brands you will find here
- Alphacool: a German manufacturer known for a broad range of water cooling parts, including radiators, pumps, fittings and coolants.
- EK Water Blocks: a Slovenian company best known for water blocks and custom loop components, with its own coolants alongside them.
- XSPC: known for water cooling kits and parts aimed at enthusiast builds.
- Thermaltake: one of the best-known makers of PC cases, power supplies and cooling, with its own water cooling line.
- Aqua Computer: a German company that specialises in water cooling parts and controllers, so its coolants are made to suit its own loop components.
- Corsair: best known for memory, power supplies and all-in-one liquid coolers, and it also has a separate custom cooling line.
Also in our range: Innovatek and Stealkey Customs.
Frequently asked questions about PC coolants
Can I use distilled water instead of coolant?
For a short time it works, but it is not recommended for long-term use. Distilled water has no corrosion inhibitors and nothing to hold back bacteria or algae, so the loop can become contaminated. Distilled water is used to dilute concentrates, not as a stand-alone coolant.
How often should I change PC coolant?
Most manufacturers recommend changing it roughly every year or two. The exact interval is given by the maker of the coolant. If the liquid turns cloudy, changes colour or shows sediment, change it sooner.
Can I mix coolants from different manufacturers?
It is better not to. The additives in different coolants can react with each other and form deposits that clog water blocks. If you switch to another coolant, flush the loop first.
How much coolant does a loop need?
It depends on the number of radiators, the size of the reservoir and the length of the tubing. A small loop often needs around a litre, while systems with several radiators need more. It is worth keeping a small reserve for topping up.
