If you have ever watched a build video and thought “I want that” when the camera pans across hard-line tubing filled with coloured coolant, you are not alone. Custom watercooling is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make to a PC. It is also, I will be honest, one of the most misunderstood. People assume it is prohibitively expensive, dangerously complicated, or both. In reality, a well-planned custom loop is quieter, cooler, and more durable than virtually any air cooling solution on the market, and the barrier to entry is lower than it has ever been.
I have been building custom loops since 2012, and in that time the components have become easier to work with, the documentation has improved enormously, and the range of parts available in the UK has grown considerably. This guide covers everything you need to know before building your first loop, or upgrading an existing one.
Why Choose Custom Watercooling?
The benefits are real and measurable. A custom loop can reduce CPU temperatures by 20 to 30 degrees compared to a stock cooler, and 10 to 15 degrees compared to a quality tower cooler. That thermal headroom translates directly into sustained boost clocks, longer component life, and the ability to overclock without your system throttling under load.
Then there is noise. A well-designed loop running through a 360mm or 480mm radiator with low-speed fans is, for all practical purposes, silent during normal use. The fans only need to spin up under heavy sustained loads, and even then they are considerably quieter than a direct-die air cooler working at full tilt. If noise bothers you, this alone is worth the investment.
Watercooling components are also some of the most durable parts in any build. A quality pump will last a decade or more. Radiators and reservoirs are essentially indefinite. When you upgrade your CPU or GPU, you typically only need a new water block to match the new socket or PCB layout. The rest of the loop carries forward.
And yes, it looks brilliant. There is no getting around it. A cleanly routed custom loop with colour-matched coolant is one of the best-looking things you can put inside a PC case.
What Goes Into a Custom Loop?
Every custom watercooling loop contains the same core components. Understanding what each one does, and why it matters, is the foundation of a good build. Here is the full list:
Water blocks sit on the components you want to cool, typically the CPU and GPU. They transfer heat from the chip into the flowing coolant through a machined copper coldplate.
Radiators dissipate that heat into the air. Fans blow across the radiator fins, and the coolant leaves cooler than it arrived.
Pumps circulate the coolant through the loop. No pump, no flow, no cooling.
Reservoirs hold a reserve of coolant, making it easy to fill the loop and ensuring the pump always has liquid to draw from.
Tubing connects everything together, carrying coolant between components.
Fittings secure the tubing to each component. They are the connectors at every joint in the loop.
Coolant is the fluid that carries heat from the blocks to the radiator. It is not just water.
Water Blocks
The water block is where heat transfer begins. Modern CPU blocks use a copper coldplate machined with extremely fine microchannels, sometimes as narrow as 200 micrometres. Coolant is directed onto these fins through an internal jet plate, creating a thin thermal boundary layer that maximises heat absorption. The finer the channels, the more surface area contacts the coolant, though finer channels also increase flow restriction.
For CPUs, you need a block that matches your socket. Intel LGA 1700 and the newer LGA 1851 are the most common Intel sockets in 2026, while AMD AM5 serves the Ryzen 7000 and 9000 series. Always triple-check socket compatibility before purchasing. It is the single most common mistake I see.
The Thermal Grizzly AM5 Mycro Pro RGB is a CPU water cooler designed for AMD’s AM5 socket and is also compatible with AM4. It targets demanding users seeking maximum cooling performance and a well-thought-out design for their custom water cooling…
The TRYX Panorama CPU Water Block combines efficient cooling technology with thoughtful added features. With its integrated pump, large cold plate, and clever extras such as a VRM fan and AMOLED display, it delivers a reliable and versatile solution for modern PC…
The TRYX Panorama CPU water block combines efficient cooling technology with well-thought-out additional features. Thanks to its large cold plate and clever extras such as a VRM fan and display, it offers a reliable and versatile solution for modern systems.
The Bitspower Summit XC CPU Block for AMD combines high cooling performance with striking aesthetics. Featuring precise water flow, a solid copper base, and a stylish metal top, this water cooler is ideal for high-performance systems with AM4 or AM5…
The Bitspower Summit ES CPU Block AMD Edition combines powerful cooling performance with a simple, elegant design. With a precisely milled copper base and direct water jet flow, it ensures efficient heat dissipation during intensive CPU use.
The EK-Quantum Velocity³ 1700/1851/AM5 – White is a high-performance CPU water block designed for AMD AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/1851 platforms. Combining cutting-edge cooling performance with a bold, all-white aesthetic, this water block is perfect for enthusiasts looking to create…
The EK-Quantum Velocity³ 1700/1851/AM5 – Acetal is a high-performance CPU water block designed for AMD AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/1851 platforms. Built upon EKs legacy of precision-engineered cooling solutions, the Velocity³ Acetal combines cutting-edge thermal performance with a sleek, minimalist…
The EK-Quantum Velocity³ 1700/1851/AM5 – Plexi is a high-performance CPU water block designed for AMD AM5 and Intel LGA 1700/1851 platforms. Built on EKs legacy of award-winning cooling solutions, the Velocity³ Plexi combines cutting-edge technology, superior materials, and exceptional aesthetics…
It is built upon an award-winning, market-recognized platform that has received the IF Design award, European Hardware Award, CES Innovation award, and several other performance review awards as well. With a revolutionary clean-front design, with no visible mounting screws, Velocity² water blocks…
The RayStorm Neo combines the high performance of our RayStorm Pro block, with a premium new look. Each waterblock is carefully machined from pure copper and acrylic, while the hold down bracket is machined from solid aluminium. As with all…
SKU: XS-NEOAM4-CH
MPN: 5060175589019
EAN: 5060175589019
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The Alphacool Apex series represents maximum cooling performance, exceptional design, and premium material selection for high-end custom water cooling systems. The Alphacool Apex 1 is the first CPU water block in the Apex series and combines all its unique features…
– CPU cooling block for Intel and AMD processors – EZ-Fit for easy integration into your custom water circuit – Copper cooling surface for strong cooling performance even under high load – Aluminum cover for a clean look – Two…
– Water cooler for direct die assembly and enormous cooling – Microfin cooler made of nickel-plated copper – Replaces SAM and heat spreader – Cover made of acrylic glass and aluminum – G1/4-inch connections for easy integration into the cooling…
– CPU water block for your water cooling system- Compatible with Intel and AMD sockets- Material made of copper and aluminum ensures thermal efficiency- Integrated fan reduces VRM temperatures on the mainboard- System monitoring via high-resolution LCD display
– CPU water block for your water cooling system- Compatible with Intel and AMD sockets- Material made of copper and aluminum ensures thermal efficiency- Integrated fan reduces VRM temperatures on the mainboard- System monitoring via high-resolution LCD display- Effective cooling…
SKU: WACP-555
MPN: 90RC00V0-M0UAY0
EAN: 4711387494288
£237.48£197.90Inc VatEx Vat
Available
For GPUs, full-cover GPU blocks cool the entire PCB, including the GPU die, memory chips, and power delivery components. They are specific to each graphics card reference design, so you need the exact block for your exact card model. Universal GPU blocks exist but they only contact the GPU die itself and leave the memory and VRMs to passive cooling, which is not ideal for higher-end cards.
Radiators
The radiator is where your loop sheds heat. It works exactly like a car radiator: hot coolant flows through thin channels while fans blow air across the fins, carrying the heat away.
Radiators are sized by how many fans they support. A 120mm radiator takes one fan, a 240mm radiator takes two, a 360mm takes three, and a 480mm takes four. The general rule of thumb is 120mm of radiator space per component being cooled, plus an extra 120mm for headroom. So a CPU-only loop wants at least a 240mm radiator, and a CPU plus GPU loop wants at least a 360mm.
Thickness matters too. Slim radiators (around 27mm) fit in tighter spaces but offer less cooling capacity. Thick radiators (45mm to 60mm) provide more fin surface area and better performance, but they need more case clearance and benefit from higher fan speeds to push air through the deeper fin stack. For most builders, a standard 30mm to 35mm thickness radiator is the sweet spot.
For more than a decade, Alphacool has dominated the market with the NexXxoS Full Copper radiator series. Our extensive portfolio of radiator variants is unique in the world. Just like our manufacturing process, which allows us to produce all water-carrying…
At the heart of the VENDETTA® X Series lies Hardware Labs’ 6th Generation X Core architecture, featuring 13 FPI, 25 micron radical geometry copper fins paired with airflow optimized tubing. This thicker, performance-focused X Core structure maximizes surface area and…
At the heart of the VENDETTA® S Series lies Hardware Labs’ 6th Generation core architecture, featuring 15 FPI, 25 micron radical geometry copper fins paired with airflow optimized tubing. This next generation S Core and 13 FPI X Core structure…
At the heart of the VENDETTA® X Series lies Hardware Labs’ 6th Generation X Core architecture, featuring 13 FPI, 25 micron radical geometry copper fins paired with airflow optimized tubing. This thicker, performance-focused X Core structure maximizes surface area and…
At the heart of the VENDETTA® S Series lies Hardware Labs’ 6th Generation core architecture, featuring 15 FPI, 25 micron radical geometry copper fins paired with airflow optimized tubing. This next generation S Core and 13 FPI X Core structure…
At the heart of the VENDETTA® R Series lies Hardware Labs’ 6th Generation R Core architecture, featuring 13 FPI, 25 micron radical geometry copper fins paired with airflow optimized tubing. This performance driven R Core structure is engineered for extreme…
At the heart of the VENDETTA® R Series lies Hardware Labs’ 6th Generation R Core architecture, featuring 13 FPI, 25 micron radical geometry copper fins paired with airflow optimized tubing. This performance driven R Core structure is engineered for extreme…
The SC RadPro L360 H48 from Stealkey Customs is a high-quality 360mm radiator for custom water cooling systems. With its robust construction and high-grade materials, it is perfect for high-performance systems with DIY ambitions.
Alphacool Core XT45 Full Copper 360mm Radiator: Maximum Surface Area and Flexibility for High-End Systems The Alphacool Core XT45 Full Copper 360mm radiator is the perfect solution for providing high-end systems with unparalleled cooling performance.
With the LYNK+ 360 Slim LED Radiator Module, you can build your own modular water cooling system – without the typical hurdles of classic custom loops. The radiator comes pre-filled, is ready to use immediately, and can be connected via…
The Phanteks Glacier EZ-Fit 420RAD-30 is a powerful radiator specifically designed for large cases and demanding water cooling setups. Featuring high-quality craftsmanship, integrated EZ-Fit fittings, and optimal cooling performance, its ideal for both beginners and experienced PC builders who value…
The Phanteks Glacier EZ-Fit 420RAD-30 is a powerful radiator specifically designed for large cases and demanding water cooling setups. Featuring high-quality craftsmanship, integrated EZ-Fit fittings, and optimal cooling performance, its ideal for both beginners and experienced PC builders who value…
As the only manufacturer worldwide, Alphacool is uncompromising in its choice of materials and uses only copper for all water-carrying components in the radiator. The chambers, cooling fins, and cooling channels are made of pure copper. Only the connection threads…
Phobya R27-S480 Black Radiator – Maximum cooling capacity for extremely powerful systems The Phobya R27-S480 Black Radiator is the ultimate cooling solution for high-end systems and enthusiasts who dont want to compromise on cooling performance. With its impressive size, its…
Phobya R27-S360 Black Radiator – Large-area cooling performance for your high-end system Expand your systems cooling capacity with the Phobya R27-S360 Black Radiator. This generously sized radiator is designed to ensure superior heat dissipation even in high-performance and demanding setups,…
The new Alphacool NexXxos radiators, a name that stands for experience and quality has come to bring a fresh breeze to the radiator market. Every user of a water cooling system needs a radiator and everyone has different requirements towards…
SKU: 35266
MPN: 14158
EAN: 4250197141581
£53.50£44.58Inc VatEx Vat
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Before you buy, measure your case. Check the manufacturer specifications for radiator support in every mounting position: top, front, bottom, and side. Account for component clearance too, particularly RAM height under a top-mounted radiator. A tape measure is your best friend at this stage.
Pumps
Two pump designs dominate custom watercooling: the D5 and the DDC. Both are originally Laing/Xylem designs and are manufactured or licensed by several brands.
The D5 is the most popular choice for custom loops. It delivers high flow rates with relatively low noise, handles complex loops with multiple blocks and radiators comfortably, and is extremely reliable. D5 pumps with variable speed control let you dial back the speed for near-silent operation when full flow is not needed.
The DDC is smaller and produces higher pressure, making it better suited to restrictive loops or compact builds where space is limited. It does run slightly louder than a D5 at comparable speeds, and its maximum flow rate is lower. For most standard builds, the D5 is the better all-rounder.
EK-Mana G2 PC-O11D EVO D5 Distribution Plate is a custom water cooling reservoir, routing and pump solution. This “distro plate” is the successor to the very successful G1 version and is specifically designed to provide an advanced water cooling solution for…
Alphacool Core Distro Plate V.2 (240mm) with VPP Apex Pump The Core Distro Plate V.2 is the ultimate distribution hub for modern custom water cooling. With its redesigned layout and integrated VPP Apex pump, it offers maximum flexibility for planning and maintaining even…
Alphacool Core 70 Tube – Real Glass Reservoir with Apex VPP Pump The Core 70 Tube Reservoir merges premium materials with a functional industrial design. The real glass cylinder ensures maximum chemical resistance and permanent clarity – a significant advantage over conventional…
The SC ResPro 360 is a 360 mm reservoir designed for high-performance custom loops and demanding builds. It is aimed at enthusiasts who prefer flexible connection options and high-quality materials.
With its particularly slim profile and pre-installed Hercules pump, the Bitspower CR802 Reservoir is ideal for demanding custom loops with limited space. It combines functional technology with thoughtful design, making the planning, installation, and operation of your water cooling system…
With its high-quality flat design and integrated Hercules pump, the Bitspower CR360 Reservoir is ideal for demanding custom loops with limited space. It combines elegant aesthetics with technical functionality while making the setup and operation of your water cooling system…
With its slim housing and integrated pump, the Bitspower CR280 reservoir offers an elegant solution for high-quality custom loops with limited space. It simplifies the setup and operation of your water cooling loop without burdening the system with unnecessary technology.
The Bitspower CR801 reservoir with integrated Hercules pump offers a space-saving solution for the demanding custom loop requirements. Its flat design allows for creative installation positions and simplifies the planning, assembly, and maintenance of your system.
The Bitspower CR140 reservoir with integrated pump is an especially space-saving solution for compact custom loops. It combines elegant design with reliable technology and can be flexibly integrated into a variety of case concepts.
With its particularly flat design and integrated pump, the Bitspower CR240 reservoir is ideal for demanding custom loops with limited space. It combines a compact construction with reliable technology, making assembly and operation in modern PC cases easier.
With its particularly slim profile and pre-installed Hercules pump, the Bitspower CR802 reservoir is ideal for demanding custom loops with limited space. It combines functional technology with thoughtful design, making planning, installation, and operation of your water cooling system easier.
– Combination of pump and expansion tank compatible with iCUE Link – Corsairs proprietary FlowDrive Max pump with high flow rate – 22 addressable RGB LEDs integrated into the iCUE Link ecosystem – G1/4 inch connection thread for maximum compatibility…
– Combination of pump and expansion tank compatible with iCUE Link – Corsairs proprietary FlowDrive Max pump with high flow rate – 22 addressable RGB LEDs integrated into the iCUE Link ecosystem – G1/4 inch connection thread for maximum compatibility…
– Compatible pump-reservoir combination with iCUE Link – Corsairs own FlowDrive Max pump with high flow rate – 22 addressable RGB LEDs integrated into the iCUE Link ecosystem – G1/4 inch threaded connection for maximum compatibility – Swirl-free reservoir with…
SKU: WAPU-232
MPN: CX-9040014-WW
EAN: 0840440484585
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£154.99£129.16Original price was: £154.99£129.16.£150.00£125.00Current price is: £150.00£125.00.Inc VatEx Vat
– Combination of pump and expansion tank compatible with iCUE Link – Corsairs proprietary FlowDrive Max pump with high flow rate – 22 addressable RGB LEDs integrated into the iCUE Link ecosystem – G1/4 inch threaded connection for maximum compatibility…
The Alphacool Core Distro Plate with integrated pump is an absolute must-have for all custom water cooling systems! With its core design, it is not only an absolute eye-catcher, but also a functional masterpiece that makes the construction and planning…
SKU: 1025366
MPN: 14573
EAN: 4250197145732
£229.62£191.35Inc VatEx Vat
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Many builders opt for a pump-reservoir combo, which integrates the pump directly into the reservoir body. This simplifies the loop, reduces the number of fittings needed, and saves space. It is dead easy to install and is what I would recommend for a first build.
Reservoirs
The reservoir serves two practical purposes. First, it provides a pool of coolant that ensures the pump always has liquid to draw from, preventing it from running dry and damaging itself. Second, it makes filling and bleeding the loop considerably easier. Without a reservoir, getting air bubbles out of a new loop is painfully fiddly.
EK-Mana G2 PC-O11D EVO D5 Distribution Plate is a custom water cooling reservoir, routing and pump solution. This “distro plate” is the successor to the very successful G1 version and is specifically designed to provide an advanced water cooling solution for…
Features: – 120mm Distroplate – 5x G1/4-inch connectors, with 1x fill and 1x drain – Distance between CPU in and CPU out 28mm for straight tubing – Direct connection to CPU water block – Stylish RGB lighting
Features: – Distroplate for 240mm fan slots – 13x G1/4-inch ports for graphics card and CPU coolers, as well as radiators – For D5 and DDC pumps – Stylish RGB lighting – Pump on the back
Alphacool Core Distro Plate V.2 (240mm) with VPP Apex Pump The Core Distro Plate V.2 is the ultimate distribution hub for modern custom water cooling. With its redesigned layout and integrated VPP Apex pump, it offers maximum flexibility for planning and maintaining even…
The Watercool HEATKILLER Tank 200 D5 is a modular and expandable reservoir for demanding custom water cooling setups. It is aimed at enthusiasts and professional users who expect maximum flexibility, high flow rates, and uncompromising material quality.
Alphacool Core Distro Plate V.2 (360mm) with VPP Apex Pump The 360mm version of the Core Distro Plate V.2 is the ultimate distribution hub for large-scale custom loops. With its redesigned layout and the powerful VPP Apex pump, it offers maximum flexibility for…
Alphacool Core 70 Tube – Real Glass Reservoir with Apex VPP Pump The Core 70 Tube Reservoir merges premium materials with a functional industrial design. The real glass cylinder ensures maximum chemical resistance and permanent clarity – a significant advantage over conventional…
The SC ResPro 360 is a 360 mm reservoir designed for high-performance custom loops and demanding builds. It is aimed at enthusiasts who prefer flexible connection options and high-quality materials.
Distro plate/reservoir for Corsair 7000D Airflow & iCUE 7000X RGB, 14× G1/4-inch fittings, D-RGB lighting, compatible with D5 or DDC pump (pump not included), suitable for CPU & GPU loops, supports setups with up to two 360 mm radiators
With its particularly slim profile and pre-installed Hercules pump, the Bitspower CR802 Reservoir is ideal for demanding custom loops with limited space. It combines functional technology with thoughtful design, making the planning, installation, and operation of your water cooling system…
With its high-quality flat design and integrated Hercules pump, the Bitspower CR360 Reservoir is ideal for demanding custom loops with limited space. It combines elegant aesthetics with technical functionality while making the setup and operation of your water cooling system…
With its slim housing and integrated pump, the Bitspower CR280 reservoir offers an elegant solution for high-quality custom loops with limited space. It simplifies the setup and operation of your water cooling loop without burdening the system with unnecessary technology.
The Bitspower CR801 reservoir with integrated Hercules pump offers a space-saving solution for the demanding custom loop requirements. Its flat design allows for creative installation positions and simplifies the planning, assembly, and maintenance of your system.
The Bitspower CR140 reservoir with integrated pump is an especially space-saving solution for compact custom loops. It combines elegant design with reliable technology and can be flexibly integrated into a variety of case concepts.
With its particularly flat design and integrated pump, the Bitspower CR240 reservoir is ideal for demanding custom loops with limited space. It combines a compact construction with reliable technology, making assembly and operation in modern PC cases easier.
With its particularly slim profile and pre-installed Hercules pump, the Bitspower CR802 reservoir is ideal for demanding custom loops with limited space. It combines functional technology with thoughtful design, making planning, installation, and operation of your water cooling system easier.
SKU: WAAU-727
MPN: BPM-WTCR802
EAN: 4712914791542
£220.00£183.33Inc VatEx Vat
Available
Reservoirs come in tube (cylinder) and flat (distribution plate) styles. Tube reservoirs are the traditional choice: a vertical cylinder, usually acrylic or glass, mounted to the case or integrated with a pump top. Distribution plates are flat panels that mount to a specific case layout, with internal channels routing coolant to predefined port positions. They look incredibly clean but are case-specific and more expensive.
Tubing: Soft vs Hard
This is one of the first decisions you will make, and it affects the entire feel of the build.
Soft tubing is flexible PVC or EPDM rubber. You cut it to length, push it onto a barb or into a compression fitting, and you are done. It is forgiving to work with, easy to route around obstacles, and simple to drain or modify later. If you are building your first loop, I would genuinely recommend starting with soft tubing. It takes the stress out of the process and lets you focus on getting the loop fundamentals right.
Masterkleer has taken a whole new approach! The classical 1m unit has been improved, the tubing is available e.g. in 3m length for tubing of the whole watercooling loop and up to 15m in length in one piece with individual…
The brand new AlphaTube TPV hose impresses with its subtle velvet look and its exceptional durability. TPV is an EPDM rubber that is primarily used in industry. For water cooling, this means that it is much more stable than PVC…
It has high transmissibility to UV-Type A and UV-Type B, allowing compatibility with UV reactive coolants. But it also has low transmissibility to UV-Type C to prevent deterioration and discoloration of the coolant. Designed and manufactured for the most demanding…
It has high transmissibility to UV-Type A and UV-Type B, allowing compatibility with UV reactive coolants. But it also has low transmissibility to UV-Type C to prevent deterioration and discoloration of the coolant. Designed and manufactured for the most demanding…
A custom loop without the hassle of bending and adjusting hard tubes: With Aqua Computers PVC hose, you can easily assemble your custom loop. The hoses transparency allows you to use colored coolant for a customized look. Furthermore, the 3…
The PVC tube is the best compromise between look and simplicity. Its flexibility makes it easy to install in the system. This makes it the ideal choice for anyone who wants easy handling and professional results.
The ES TPV tube from Alphacools Enterprise Solutions series is characterized by its high resistance to acids, alkalis and external influences and has exceptional longevity compared to conventional PVC tubes.
In contrast to plastic products made of PVC or PUR, with the EPDM rubber of this hose from aqua computer there is no risk of plasticizers being washed out over the long term, which then slag the water cooling system…
The EPDM tube from Alphacools Enterprise Solutions series is particularly durable compared to conventional PVC tubes due to its high resistance to acids, bases and external influences.
The EPDM tube from Alphacools Enterprise Solutions series is particularly durable compared to conventional PVC tubes due to its high resistance to acids, bases and external influences.
SKU: 1023323
MPN: 18713
EAN: 4250197187138
Available for Collection
£9.12£7.60Inc VatEx Vat
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Hard tubing uses rigid PETG or acrylic tubes that are heated and bent into shape. The results look absolutely stunning, and there is a real satisfaction in nailing a clean set of bends. PETG is easier to work with as it bends at lower temperatures and is more forgiving of mistakes. Acrylic is harder to bend but more resistant to heat and slightly clearer optically. Both require hard tube fittings, a heat gun, and a bending kit. It is more time-consuming, but the aesthetic payoff is substantial.
Whichever you choose, make sure your tubing size matches your fittings. The two measurements that matter are inner diameter (ID) and outer diameter (OD). Common soft tubing sizes are 10/13mm and 10/16mm. Common hard tube sizes are 12mm and 16mm OD. Mixing sizes within a loop is asking for trouble.
The DeltaMate fittings are water cooling hose connectors for the individual components of a custom water cooling system. The fittings are machined from brass. Brass, as an alloy of copper and zinc, offers the advantage of being anodically compatible with…
The DeltaMate fittings are water-cooling hose connectors for the individual components of a custom water cooling system. The fittings are machined from brass. Brass, as an alloy of copper and zinc, offers the advantage of being anodically compatible with other…
The DeltaMate fittings are water cooling hose connectors for the individual components of a custom water cooling system. The fittings are machined from brass. Brass, as an alloy of copper and zinc, offers the advantage of being anodically compatible with…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Perfection for 13mm Hardtubes Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system designed for flexible and customized connection solutions in modern water cooling setups. Combining signature Apex style with premium craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Elegance for 16mm Hardtubes Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system designed for flexible and customized connection solutions in modern water cooling setups. Combining signature Apex style with premium craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Elegance for 13mm Hardtubes Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that allows for flexible and customized connection solutions in modern water cooling loops. Combining a distinctive Apex design with high-quality craftsmanship, this…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Perfection for 16mm Hardtubes Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system designed for flexible and customized connection solutions in modern water cooling setups. Combining signature Apex style with premium craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Perfection for 13mm Hardtubes Alphacool Apex Grip fittings utilize a modular system to provide flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining the signature Apex style with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Elegance for Custom Water Cooling The Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining the distinctive Apex style with high-quality craftsmanship,…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Elegance for 13mm Hardtubes Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system designed for flexible and customized connection solutions in modern water cooling setups. Combining signature Apex style with premium craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Perfection for 16mm Hardtubes Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system designed for flexible and customized connection solutions in modern water cooling setups. Combining signature Apex style with premium craftsmanship, these fittings are…
The DeltaMate fittings are water cooling hose connectors for the individual components of a custom water cooling system. The fittings are machined from brass. Brass, as an alloy of copper and zinc, offers the advantage of being anodically compatible with…
The DeltaMate Fitting HT16 from Thermal Grizzly is the ideal choice for users of custom water cooling systems who value precise, robust, and stylish fittings. It is perfect for 16 mm hard tubes and combines high-quality craftsmanship with clever design for easy…
Fitting for 14mm hard tubes (outer diameter), minimalist design, magnetic ring for visual adjustment, made of copper, precisely manufactured
SKU: WAAD-679
MPN: BPM-ATEMLA14-WH
EAN: 4712914791351
£11.99£9.99Inc VatEx Vat
Available
Fittings
Fittings are the connectors that join tubing to components. You will need two fittings per component (one inlet, one outlet), plus additional fittings for any adapters, angles, drain valves, or fill ports.
For soft tubing, compression fittings are the standard. The tubing slides over an inner barb, then the outer compression ring screws down to grip the tube securely. They provide a reliable, leak-free seal and are a doddle to install.
For hard tubing, compression fittings work similarly but grip the rigid tube with an internal O-ring. Proper insertion depth is critical here. The tube must be cut cleanly, deburred, and fully seated before tightening.
The DeltaMate Rotary 90° Fitting from Thermal Grizzly offers a rotatable angled connection for demanding custom water cooling setups. It is aimed at users who require precise hose routing even in tight spaces, without compromising on safety or design.
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Design & Superior Comfort Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining the distinctive Apex style with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings…
Alphacool Apex Grip Offset Fitting – Maximum Flexibility in Chrome Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system designed for customized connection solutions in modern water cooling setups. This offset fitting combines the distinctive Apex style with technical precision to…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Flexibility in Elegant Chrome Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining the distinctive Apex style with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Flexibility in Black Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining the distinctive Apex style with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Elegance & Maximum Grip Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining distinctive Apex design with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Offset Fitting – Maximum Flexibility in Black The Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining distinctive Apex style with high-quality craftsmanship, this offset…
Alphacool Apex Grip Offset Fitting – Maximum Flexibility in Black The Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. This offset fitting combines technical ingenuity with the signature…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Compact Flexibility in Chrome Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining the distinctive Apex style with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Offset Fitting – Maximum Flexibility in Chrome The Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. This offset fitting combines technical ingenuity with the signature…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Elegance & Maximum Grip Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining distinctive Apex design with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Elegance & Maximum Grip Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining distinctive Apex design with high-quality craftsmanship, this series is…
The DeltaMate fittings are water cooling hose connectors for the individual components of a custom water cooling system. The fittings are machined from brass. Brass, as an alloy of copper and zinc, offers the advantage of being anodically compatible with…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Compact Elegance in Chrome Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining distinctive Apex design with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings are the…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Elegance & Maximum Grip Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining distinctive Apex design with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings are…
Alphacool Apex Grip Fitting – Modular Flexibility in Black Alphacool Apex Grip fittings feature a modular system that enables flexible and customized connection solutions for modern water cooling setups. Combining the distinctive Apex style with high-quality craftsmanship, these fittings are…
SKU: 1026650
MPN: 14812
EAN: 4250197148122
£4.49£3.74Inc VatEx Vat
Available
Beyond straight fittings, you will likely want a few specialty pieces: 90-degree rotary adapters for tight bends, a T-splitter or ball valve for a drain port, and possibly extenders for alignment. Plan your fitting count carefully. It is easy to underestimate how many you need, and nobody wants to pause a build to order two more fittings.
Coolant
Do not just fill your loop with tap water. Tap water contains minerals, chlorine, and microorganisms that will corrode your components, clog your blocks, and create biological growth inside your tubing. It is a false economy.
A quality pre-mixed coolant contains corrosion inhibitors that protect the mixed metals in your loop, biocides that prevent algae and bacterial growth, and surfactants that improve flow characteristics. It is ready to pour straight into your loop with no mixing required.
With Alphacool Eiswasser, water cooling pioneer Alphacool is checking off every modder and enthusiasts wish list: brilliant colours, cool effects in plexi coolers, tubing and reservoirs, as well as a long lifespan and material compatibility.
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
Through the years of experience of the developers of Phobya in their special area water cooling for PCs were here first-class blends developed the next, for example, certain colorations all other important basic needs to the coolant met: corrosion protection,…
SKU: 30281
MPN: 30281
EAN: 4049469174439
On Sale
Available for Collection
£10.00£8.33Original price was: £10.00£8.33.£4.79£3.99Current price is: £4.79£3.99.Inc VatEx Vat
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
XSPC PURE is a clean, eco-friendly coolant for PC water-cooling. Its based on a refined 8 stage, triple distilled water blend with non-toxic corrosion inhibitors, and long life non-toxic dyes (except clear which contains no dyes). It offers market leading…
SKU: XS-PURE-PK
MPN: 5060596651463
EAN: 5060596651463
Available for Collection
£7.98£6.65Inc VatEx Vat
Available
Concentrate options are also available if you prefer to mix with distilled water yourself. Either way, use a proper watercooling coolant from a reputable brand. The cost is negligible compared to the rest of the loop, and it protects your entire investment.
One important note on metals: never mix copper and aluminium components in the same loop without coolant specifically formulated for mixed metals. Galvanic corrosion between dissimilar metals will destroy your components over time. Stick to copper and nickel throughout, or go all-aluminium. Mixing is not worth the risk.
How Much Does a Custom Loop Cost?
The honest answer is that it depends on what you are cooling and how particular you are about aesthetics. Here is a realistic breakdown for 2026.
CPU-only loop (soft tubing): A quality CPU block, a D5 pump-reservoir combo, a 240mm or 360mm radiator, soft tubing, compression fittings, fans, and coolant will come in at roughly 200 to 300 pounds. This is the most accessible entry point and will outperform any air cooler or AIO on the market.
CPU and GPU loop: Add a full-cover GPU block and possibly a second radiator, and you are looking at 400 to 600 pounds depending on your GPU model and the radiator size. This is the most popular configuration among enthusiast builders.
Premium or hard-line build: Higher-end components, hard tubing, colour-matched fittings, and a distribution plate can push the total to 700 pounds or more. At this level you are paying for aesthetics and build quality as much as raw thermal performance.
If the upfront cost feels steep, we offer Klarna financing which lets you spread the cost. And keep in mind that most of these components will outlast multiple CPU and GPU upgrades, so the cost per year of ownership is quite reasonable.
Is Custom Watercooling Safe?
This is the question I get asked most often, and the short answer is yes, provided you do the basics right.
The biggest fear is leaking. A leak inside a running PC can short-circuit components and cause real damage. But here is the thing: modern watercooling components are engineered to extremely tight tolerances. Quality fittings with proper O-ring seals do not spontaneously leak. Leaks almost always come from user error: a fitting not fully tightened, a tube not seated properly, or a cracked acrylic port from over-tightening.
The solution is straightforward. Before you fill your loop with coolant, leak test it. Fill the loop, power only the pump (not the rest of the PC), and let it run for 12 to 24 hours with paper towels under every fitting. If nothing drips, you are good to go. Some builders use a pressure leak tester, which pressurises the loop with air and checks for drops in pressure. Either method works. The point is to test before your motherboard and graphics card are at risk.
Modern coolants are also non-conductive when fresh, which provides an additional safety margin. Even if a small amount were to escape, the chance of it causing immediate damage is relatively low. That said, do not rely on this as your primary safeguard. Proper assembly and testing are your real protection.
Planning Your First Loop
Before you buy a single component, plan the loop on paper. Sketch your case layout, mark where the radiator will mount, where the pump-reservoir will sit, and how the tubing will route between components. This step saves time, money, and frustration.
Loop order is a common source of confusion. In practice, the order of components in a custom loop makes very little difference to temperatures. The coolant temperature equalises across the entire loop within seconds. Whether you go pump, radiator, CPU block, GPU block, reservoir, or some other arrangement, the thermal performance will be essentially identical. Route for the cleanest tubing runs and the easiest drain path, not for some theoretical optimal order.
Do plan your drain port, though. A ball valve or quick-release fitting at the lowest point of your loop makes maintenance dramatically easier. You will need to drain the loop for coolant changes (roughly once a year) and whenever you modify the build. Skipping the drain valve is something you will regret exactly once.
A temperature sensor inline in your loop is also a worthwhile addition. It lets you set fan curves based on actual coolant temperature rather than CPU temperature spikes, which results in much smoother and quieter fan behaviour.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not checking case compatibility. The most expensive radiator in the world is useless if it does not fit your case. Measure twice.
Buying the wrong socket block. Sounds obvious, but it happens regularly. Check your CPU socket, check the block compatibility list, then check again.
Mixing metals. Copper and aluminium in the same loop will cause galvanic corrosion. It is not a question of if, but when.
Skipping the leak test. Twenty-four hours of patience can save hundreds of pounds in damaged components.
Under-ordering fittings. Count every connection point in your loop, add two spares, then add two more. Running out of fittings mid-build is a fairly common and entirely avoidable frustration.
Over-tightening. Fittings need to be snug, not gorilla-tight. Over-tightening can crack acrylic ports, damage O-rings, and actually cause the leaks you are trying to prevent.
Using tap water. It will corrode your components and grow algae. Always use proper coolant.
Getting Started
If this guide has convinced you to take the plunge, the easiest way to begin is with a watercooling kit. Kits bundle the core components together (block, pump, radiator, tubing, fittings, and coolant) so you do not have to source each part individually. They are a solid starting point and take much of the guesswork out of compatibility.
For those who prefer to pick each component, start by deciding what you want to cool (CPU only, or CPU and GPU), check your case for radiator clearance, and work outward from there. We stock the full range of components from brands like Alphacool, EK, XSPC, Barrow, Bitspower, Watercool, and Aqua Computer, and our team in Manchester is always happy to help if you are not sure what fits.
Custom watercooling is not as difficult as it looks, and the results are genuinely worth the effort. Take your time with the planning, do not skip the leak test, and enjoy the build. It is one of the most satisfying things you can do to a PC.
Customer Reviews
ymo
Super Item. No problems so far. Everything working as it should. Highly Recommend Watercooling.co.uk. Had already purchased from their website and their ebay page. Always a good experience. Good delivery time as well!
Feb 24, 2026
John Flook
Decent power supply delivered on time.
Oct 9, 2020
Rob
Great service from start to finish, great range of products and user friendly website! Watercooling UK are outstanding and have become my go to for all things watercooling! Thank you ….. Oh and did I mention – GREAT SERVICE!
Feb 9, 2024
Shawn
Quite literally the only shop that had what I needed, and it was safely delivered and worked perfectly.
Apr 18, 2024
Chevron
Fast delivery, good range of parts, decent prices.
Excellent service: One item I purchased went out of stock before it could be sent out, requested a different part be sent in its place and was processed same-day with next day delivery – thank you Tom & the WCUK team.
Jan 28, 2025
Dan 6iXups
I’ve used WCUK for a while now, right on my door step. Always friendly and helpful when ordering/picking parts. 100% recommend to anyone in to watercooled PC parts.
Apr 7, 2025
Terry Davis
I ordered a PSU for a PC build, the price was competitive, and my order arrived quickly, I wouldn’t hesitate to use WCUK again in the future.
Oct 9, 2023
Jay Greer
Order was received on time with no issues what so ever. I will be shopping for my pc parts with these again in the future.
Sep 26, 2024
GhostFright
Purchased an EK-Quantum Vector2 Trio RTX 3080/90 ABP Set D-RGB and some Thermal grizzly Kryonaut Extreme thermal paste as I was building a rig for my sons 16th birthday.
Been a customer directly or indirectly since around 2007 and I have never been failed.
Fantastic products and service from an equally fantastic supplier.
I will always be a customer when I need a few things until the day I die.
A big thank you WatercoolingUK from Allen.
Jan 12, 2025
Mark Cockerill
Great products and service, I especially like the percentage & savings offers that run often, can make a substantial saving🙂
Oct 28, 2024
jgruppe27
Items arrived fairly quickly and well packaged.
Have bought other items and have never had a problem🙂
Oct 9, 2020
Mole HD
One stop shop for all things liquid cooling, from custom builds to off the shelf options. Customer service is top notch, I never go anywhere else.
Jul 15, 2024
Jerry Urban
Fantastic ebayer! Highly recommended
Oct 9, 2020
Daniel
Great company to buy from was cheaper than overclockers UK for what I needed, came fast and secure also and works perfect.
Jan 29, 2026
Cam
Delivered quick. Packaged well. Happy with purchase. Would recommend them if in the market for pc cooling products.
ymo
John Flook
Rob
Shawn
Chevron
Dan 6iXups
Terry Davis
Jay Greer
GhostFright
Mark Cockerill
jgruppe27
Mole HD
Jerry Urban
Daniel
Cam
