How often should I replace thermal paste? This pivotal inquiry often eludes the attention of even the most diligent tech aficionados. Given the essential role thermal paste plays in transferring heat away from critical components, understanding the optimal frequency for its replacement becomes paramount. Is it sufficient to apply a fresh layer every couple of years, or do intensive computing tasks necessitate a more vigilant approach? Furthermore, what specific signs should one observe that would warrant a change in this thermal interface material? Could the age of the paste, environmental factors, or the type of CPU or GPU in use fundamentally alter the timelines? As high-performance processing demands intensify, should I be proactively monitoring my system for temperature anomalies, or is it prudent to establish a regular maintenance schedule? With these considerations at hand, how can I ensure that my system operates at peak efficiency while avoiding potential overheating hazards?