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Discover why and how to install a heat sink on your Raspberry Pi. Learn about heat dissipation, step-by-step application, and where to source kits locally from Communica.
Reduce throttling and extend Pi lifespan in warm, enclosed, or overclocked setups.
Simple guide for safely fitting heat sinks to SoC, RAM, and power chips.
Choose compatible kits and tools from Communica's range for your Pi model.
The Raspberry Pi family-especially newer and performance-focused models like the Raspberry Pi 4B or Pi 400-may experience significant heat buildup during heavy workloads or in South Africa's warmer months. Although not always essential for basic use, adding a heat sink can:
A heat sink draws heat away from the Pi's main processor (SOC), and sometimes RAM or power management chips, dispersing it into the surrounding air. Most Pi-compatible heat sinks are passive aluminum types with a thermally conductive adhesive pad, but there are also premium copper and active (fan-assisted) options.
| Component | Heat Sink Material | Typical Size (mm) | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU/SOC | Aluminum or copper | 14x14 - 20x20 | Always recommended for Pi 4/400 |
| RAM | Aluminum | 9x9 - 14x14 | Optional, mainly for Pi 4/CM4 |
| PMIC (Power chip) | Aluminum | 9x9 - 14x14 | Helpful for heavy I/O use |
Not all heat sink kits fit all Pi versions. Check that the included pieces match your board layout-especially for Pi 3B, 3B+, 4B, or Compute Module variants. Kits may include one, two, or three heat sinks depending on model, plus a thermal pad or pre-applied adhesive.
| Pi Model | Recommended Heat Sinks | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pi 4B / 400 | CPU, RAM, PMIC | Use low-profile if case is tight |
| Pi 3B / 3B+ | CPU only (optional: RAM) | Gets warm, but less than Pi 4 |
| Zero, Zero 2 W | Usually not essential | Space limited; small sinks only |
Explore Communica's Raspberry Pi and cooling category for kits, fans, and compatible cases.
+---------------------------+ | Raspberry Pi | | +-------------+ | | | [HEATSINK] | | <- Place directly over CPU/SOC | +-------------+ | +---------------------------+
vcgencmd measure_temp (run in Pi Terminal).Should you need to safely remove a heat sink, gently twist it (do not pry straight up). Clean the chip and apply new adhesive before refitting.
Communica stocks a selection of heat sinks, cooling kits, and compatible cases for Raspberry Pi models. Popular brands include Adafruit, Waveshare, GeeekPi, and local generic options. Stock and kit types may vary by branch-check the Samrand, Pretoria, or Cape Town branch for current availability, or explore online for quick order and VAT invoicing for schools and businesses.
Free shipping for orders over ZAR 1,000.00.
Get a full refund if you had the product for less than 7 days.
Nationwide delivery within 2 - 4 working days.
Communica supplies semiconductors and electronic components to industries such as automotive, electrical, automation, mining, and education.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only. Product availability, pricing, and specifications are subject to change. Always verify current details on the retailer's website before making a purchase. We may earn affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases.
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He's polite, good with people and made me feel free to talk.. all in all he's helpful
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Excellent service so far
Verified customerSydney offered exceptional service. He took me step by step on what I needed to buy. Thank you Nicole for the service
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Verified customerGreat customer care, with Nicole in the front Desk, the team is fully on the customer support gear, really appreciate your smile Team, Ola.
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Verified customerThe service I always get from Sydney And Lacy the Cashier is amazing. Those are my guys...keep up the good works gentlemen.
Verified customerOrdered online. Got my order in less than 24 hrs. I was updated all the time on the progress. I have never seen service like this. Thanks and well don...
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Verified customerREHAAN and Nicole are extremely helpful and friendly people made my experience at communica a breeze to shop. Thank you again for the help.
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Quick quality customer service.
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Verified customerLovely service received from Nicole thank you lady
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Verified customerVery good service from Nicole
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Verified customerSydney en Lacy was baie hulpvaardig. Goeie diens!
Verified customerNicolene
Verified customerGreat place to purchase electronic components at a fair price. They have a wide range of products and a well functioning ticketing system that ensures...
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Currently have only purchased items from their on-line store. Received what I ordered plus quick delivery. No complaints to date.
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I got the most pleasant service from Sydney and Windie
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Verified customerNicole was very helpfull and friendly.
Verified customerGood job Nicole! Well done!
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Verified customerExcellent service Nicole
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