Radiator connector orientation - does it matter?

[StDragon]

So I'm looking to install a front-mounted radiator for a custom loop. I understand that with AIO units, the connectors to the rad should be at the bottom of a vertical mounted rad. But with a custom loop, wouldn't you want it on top so as to flush out as air bubbles as possible? Meaning, trapped air in the rad inhibits efficient cooling.

 

Any thoughts on this and how the advice might differ between custom and AIO hardware orientation/placement?

[Dutch_Master]

No, you want to have any air trapped not on your pump. Pumps for fluids aren't very good at pumping air, so you'd want to avoid that as much as you can. If your loop has a reservoir, mount it at the highest point so it can trap the air instead.

[For Science!]

5 hours ago, StDragon said:

So I'm looking to install a front-mounted radiator for a custom loop. I understand that with AIO units, the connectors to the rad should be at the bottom of a vertical mounted rad. But with a custom loop, wouldn't you want it on top so as to flush out as air bubbles as possible? Meaning, trapped air in the rad inhibits efficient cooling.

 

Any thoughts on this and how the advice might differ between custom and AIO hardware orientation/placement?

Either is fine, ports on top means air is easier is bleed, ports on bottom will make the liquid easier to drain for maintenance. Given you have a reservoir somewhere, the air will find its way there over time either way.

[-rascal-]

5 hours ago, StDragon said:

So I'm looking to install a front-mounted radiator for a custom loop. I understand that with AIO units, the connectors to the rad should be at the bottom of a vertical mounted rad. But with a custom loop, wouldn't you want it on top so as to flush out as air bubbles as possible? Meaning, trapped air in the rad inhibits efficient cooling.

 

Any thoughts on this and how the advice might differ between custom and AIO hardware orientation/placement?

 

Correct, it doesn't matter for a custom loop -- as mentioned by 'Tech Jesus'.

In a custom loop,  you just run the pump for 24 ~ 48 hours, and let it circulate the air bubbles to the reservoir. 

Then just top of the reservoir....and the bubbles are gone.

 

Can't do with with a sealed AIO.