When it comes to custom PC builds, few things stand out as much as a sleek, transparent case with an expertly installed liquid cooling system. These setups are not just about performance—though liquid cooling provides superior heat management—they’re also about aesthetics. A transparent case allows you to showcase your system’s internal components, and with the right lighting and cable management, it can turn your rig into a work of art.
In this guide by A. Ostrovskiy, we’ll show you how to properly install and configure a liquid cooling system in a transparent enclosure, maximizing the functionality and visual appeal of your build.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Liquid Cooling System for a Transparent Case
Before you dive into installation, selecting the right liquid cooling system is crucial. For a transparent case, aesthetics play an essential role alongside performance. There are a few factors to consider:
- Type of Liquid Cooling System: Most builders choose an All-in-One (AIO) liquid cooler for its convenience, but custom liquid cooling loops are also an option if you’re looking to go fully custom with your build. Custom loops offer more flexibility in terms of design and cooling capacity but require advanced skills and regular maintenance.
- Size and Radiator Placement: Transparent cases often have multiple mounting options for radiators, including the front, top, and rear. Check the size compatibility for radiators (120mm, 240mm, or 360mm) to ensure your case can accommodate the setup you want.
- RGB Lighting and Aesthetic Features: Since your PC’s internals will be on display, choosing a liquid cooling system with customizable RGB lighting will add to the visual appeal. Many AIOs now come with illuminated pump heads and RGB fans, allowing you to create a cohesive lighting scheme.
Step 2: Prepping Your Transparent Case
Before starting the installation, make sure your case is prepped and ready for the process.
- Clear the workspace: Remove both side panels of the case and lay it flat for easier access. Clean any dust or debris from the case interior using compressed air, as dust can impair cooling performance and spoil the aesthetics.
- Plan the layout: Decide where you want to install the radiator. In most transparent cases, the top and front mounts are ideal for radiators, as they keep the tubing tidy and visible while optimizing airflow. You’ll also want to think about cable routing and where you’ll position the pump and fans to maximize the clean look of your build.
Step 3: Installing the Radiator
Front vs. Top Mounting
Choosing between a front-mounted or top-mounted radiator depends on several factors, including airflow preferences and aesthetics. For transparent cases, many builders opt for front mounting because it places the radiator and fans in clear view through the front panel, making it more visually striking.
- Front mounting typically allows for more visible RGB fans and creates a prominent aesthetic. However, it may pull warmer air into the system.
- Top mounting provides a sleeker, more minimalist look, with fans pushing hot air out of the case, generally resulting in better overall airflow and cooler system temperatures.
Radiator Installation Steps
- Install the fans onto the radiator. You’ll want to attach the fans either in a push or pull configuration depending on your airflow preference. Push (blowing air through the radiator) is generally better for intake at the front, while pull (pulling air through the radiator) works well for exhaust at the top.
- Align the radiator with the mounting holes on the front or top of your case. Secure it with the included screws. Be sure to route the fan cables toward the rear or bottom of the case to keep the build looking neat.
- Ensure tubing is properly positioned so that it can easily reach the CPU block without being overly stretched or kinked. Transparent cases often have cutouts and cable management channels, which you can use to route tubing and cables for a cleaner look.
Step 4: Installing the CPU Block and Pump
Once your radiator is mounted, the next step is installing the CPU block and pump. This component attaches directly to your processor and is responsible for drawing heat away from it.
Applying Thermal Paste
Most AIO liquid coolers come with pre-applied thermal paste on the CPU block, but if yours doesn’t, you’ll need to apply it manually. Apply a small pea-sized amount of paste to the center of the CPU. When the block is mounted, it will spread evenly, ensuring efficient heat transfer.

Mounting the CPU Block
- Attach the correct mounting bracket for your CPU socket (Intel or AMD). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper compatibility.
- Position the CPU block over the processor and gently place it on top, aligning it with the mounting posts or screws.
- Secure the block by tightening the screws or mounting clips. Be sure to tighten them in an alternating pattern to ensure even pressure across the CPU. Don’t overtighten, as this can damage the CPU or motherboard.
- Route the tubing carefully. In a transparent case, clean tubing management is vital. Ensure the tubes are not twisted or obstructed and that they don’t interfere with other components or fans.
Step 5: Connecting the Pump and Fans
Now that the physical installation is complete, it’s time to connect the pump and fans.
- Connect the pump to the motherboard. The pump typically plugs into the CPU_FAN or dedicated PUMP header on the motherboard. This ensures it receives constant power for optimal cooling.
- Connect the fans to either fan headers on the motherboard or to a fan controller if your case supports one. In cases with integrated RGB lighting, you may also need to connect the fans to an RGB header or an external controller for lighting customization.
- Cable management is critical in transparent cases. Hide excess cabling behind the motherboard tray and use zip ties or Velcro straps to secure cables in place. The neater the cables, the more professional and visually pleasing your build will look.
Step 6: Configuring the Cooling System
Once all components are installed and connected, it’s time to configure the cooling system for optimal performance and aesthetics.
BIOS Configuration
Upon booting your PC for the first time, enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing the DEL or F2 key during startup). Here, you can set fan curves and monitor pump performance.
- Set up fan curves for the radiator fans to ensure they adjust speed based on temperature. Most motherboards allow you to set custom fan profiles based on CPU temperature, allowing your system to stay quiet during light tasks and ramp up cooling during intensive workloads.
- Monitor the pump speed to ensure it’s running properly. The pump should generally run at full speed or at a fixed rate to maintain consistent cooling.
RGB Lighting Configuration
For transparent cases, RGB lighting can take your build to the next level. Most liquid coolers with RGB lighting come with software for customizing the color and effects of the lighting. Popular software includes Corsair iCUE, ASUS Aura Sync, and MSI Mystic Light.
- Install the RGB control software that corresponds with your hardware, and open the app to customize the lighting.
- Synchronize the lighting across all components, including fans, the pump, and even the motherboard or graphics card, for a unified and visually appealing effect.
Step 7: Testing and Monitoring
After setting up and configuring your liquid cooling system, it’s crucial to monitor its performance.
- Run stress tests like Prime95 or AIDA64 to ensure the cooling system is performing efficiently under load. Monitor CPU temperatures using software like HWMonitor or Core Temp.
- Check for leaks in the tubing and fittings, especially during the first few hours of operation. While leaks are rare in AIO coolers, they can happen, and it’s important to address them immediately to avoid damaging your components.
Conclusion
Installing a liquid cooling system in a transparent case not only provides excellent thermal performance but also offers the opportunity to create a stunning visual masterpiece. By carefully planning the layout, managing cables, and configuring the cooling and RGB systems, you can achieve a build that is as functional as it is beautiful. Whether you’re a gamer, overclocker, or enthusiast, liquid cooling in a transparent case is a perfect blend of aesthetics and performance.