When should I consider replacing the thermal paste on my CPU? Is there a definitive interval, or does it depend on various factors, such as the type of CPU cooler being used and the thermal demands of the tasks I perform? Furthermore, are there specific indicators to look for that might suggest it’s time for a replacement, like rising temperatures or performance throttling? Can the age of the thermal paste itself significantly impact its effectiveness, or does the initial application technique play a more crucial role in determining longevity? Additionally, how do environmental factors, such as dust accumulation and ambient temperature, influence the lifespan of thermal paste? Should I proactively replace it after a certain number of months or years, or is monitoring system performance for anomalous behavior a more prudent approach? Ultimately, what best practices should I be aware of to ensure optimal thermal conductivity and maintain my CPU’s overall health?