How often should I change my thermal paste? Is there a definitive timeline that one should adhere to in order to maintain optimal thermal conductivity and ensure that the cooling system operates at peak efficiency? Given the myriad of factors that can influence the longevity of thermal paste, such as the type used, the thermal load experienced by the CPU or GPU, and even environmental conditions, it becomes essential to interrogate this topic meticulously. Should the application of thermal paste be a routine part of system maintenance, akin to changing an oil filter in a vehicle? Or is it sufficient to perform this task only when experiencing thermal throttling or performance degradation? Might there be telltale signs that indicate it’s time for a change, like discoloration or decreased viscoelasticity? In exploring these queries, how can one better understand the relationship between thermal paste quality, system durability, and overall performance? What criteria should be prioritized during this assessment?