Here is a tutorial on how to maximize your computer's cooling potential!
StepsOrganize the wiringKeep your PC cleanChoosing your partsInstallation
Firstly, here are some excellent online stores where you can purchase these types of modifications for your PC:
Organize the wiringAlrighty. Where to begin? Ah yes, organize the wiring. Organized wiring can vastly improve airflow through your case, making your fans work less and improving their lifespan while cutting down on noise. To organize your wiring, you can simply use twist-ties to keep them together and give your PC a cleaner look inside. If you want to look really professional, you can use tie-wraps (some of them are reusable now) and
these cable clamps to make your PC look professional inside and get the wires out of the way of precious airflow.
To also improve the look of your wiring,
here is an excellent guide to sleeve your wiring.
Remember those old ugly flat IDE cables (those white ribbon cables)? You no longer have to deal with them! Buy some
round IDE cables for use in your PC. *Note* IDE cables with all 40 holes open can be used to connect Sound Blaster cards to front panels.
Keep your PC cleanThis step is probably the easiest to do of all. Dust can act as a serious insulator for components, and this problem is magnified when your PC is running on only air cooling. Some good steps to take are to vacuum your room (I'm not joking - this cuts down on a ton of dust) and elevate your PC off the floor. The higher your PC is off the ground the better, but even just a few inches will severely reduce the amount of dust that goes into your PC.
*More to come later*