How to Install the Hydro Series H80i GT Liquid Cooler

The new Hydro Series H80i GT cooler offers tremendous performance while requiring only a 120mm fan mount. This step by step guide should help you install it on any Intel LGA115X platform. If you prefer video instructions, you can watch our guide on YouTube here:

Let’s get started!

Step 1: Mount the Backplate

First, adjust the notches on the backplate and push the standoffs through the back of the motherboard.

Next, use the silver standoff screws and insert them into the backplate. The backplate may be a little bit loose even with all four screws installed; this is normal.

Step 2: Attach Inside Fan to Radiator

We’ll need to prep the radiator for installation inside your case.

Using the long screws included with the H80i GT, attach the fan to the radiator, orienting the fan struts to the inside. You’ll always be able to tell which direction a fan blows by which side of the fan has the struts; this fan is oriented to push air through the radiator.

Step 3: Mount the Cooling Block

The first thing we need to do before mounting the cooling block is remove the protective plastic cover.

Note that there’s a silver disc of thermal interface material already applied to the underside of the block.

Slide the block onto the standoffs.

Use the included thumbscrews to secure the block, alternating corners in the same fashion you would remove or replace lugnuts on a tire.

Step 4: Attach 2^nd Fan and Radiator to Case

Push one of the long screws through the rear of the case and one of the mounting holes of the second fan, with the fan struts facing the back of the case to allow hot air to exhaust safely outside your system.

Screw it into place, then install the remaining screws.

With all four screws installed, the H80i GT should now be securely mounted to the interior of your case.

Step 5: Connect Fan and Pump Power Cables

Now that we have the H80i GT physically mounted, we need to connect the cables that allow it to run.

Connect the leads from the two fans to the waterblock’s fan headers.

Connect the block pump to the CPU_FAN header on your motherboard.

Step 6: Connect Corsair Link Data Cable

While the H80i GT can operate without the Corsair Link software, it’s needed to get the most out of your new cooler. The Corsair Link software allows you to change the color of the pump cap backlight, adjust the pump speed, and program your own fan curves.

Connect the mini-USB side of the included data cable to the waterblock.

Connect the USB header side to a free 9-pin USB 2.0 header on your motherboard.

When in Windows, visit the download site here to download the Corsair Link dashboard software to control the cooler.

Your new H80i GT should now be fully operational!

Optional Extra Step

While the H80i GT is designed to be as easy to use as possible, you may need to disable fan control on the CPU_FAN header in your motherboard’s BIOS. Consult your motherboard’s user manual for information on how.