When should I change thermal paste, and what factors should I consider in determining the optimal timing for this maintenance task? Is it sufficient to rely solely on the age of the thermal paste, or should I also take into account the specific operating conditions of my CPU or GPU? For instance, how often is the system subjected to rigorous demands, such as intense gaming sessions or resource-heavy applications? Furthermore, can the ambient temperature and the airflow within the computer case influence the longevity of the thermal interface material? Additionally, are there any telltale signs, such as increased temperatures during standard operations or noticeable thermal throttling, that might warrant an immediate inspection and potential replacement? Ultimately, how can one ascertain whether the benefits of changing the thermal paste outweigh the risks and efforts involved in performing this procedure? Would periodic assessments contribute to the overall efficiency and longevity of the system?