We’re Guilty Of This Computer Sin… Are you?
We have a dirty secret to confess…
We don’t clean our office computers as often as we should. Yes, we’ll shake the crumbs out of the keyboard from time to time just like everyone else, but that could hardly constitute as a “cleaning.”
With spring in the air, we thought this would be a good opportunity to remind everyone to clean out those dirty PCs. After all, you should do this every 3 to 4 months. And, it’s not just for sanitation purposes.
The electromagnetic field put off by your computer attracts dirt. Just take a look at the back of your PC near the fan vent. This dust and debris accumulates, and acts just like insulation, making your computer run too hot.
It’s Not Just Dirty… It’s Dangerous!
The dust clogging those vents will cause your CPU to heat up—and heat is the biggest cause of component failure in computers. That dirt and dust can end up shutting down your PC and costing you real money!
Here’s a general overview of how to clean your computer…
A Warning Before You Start Scrubbing
Never spray or squirt any type of liquid onto ANY part of your computer. If a spray is needed, spray the liquid onto a cloth and then use that cloth to rub down the component. You NEVER want to get any of the components inside the computer wet and you don’t want to spray cleaner directly onto a computer screen!
Also, when vacuuming the dust INSIDE your computer, make sure you use one that was designed specifically for the job and not the one in your closet. Standard vacuums create static electricity that can damage the internal components of your computer. Instead, use a portable battery powered vacuum designed to do this job.
Tools You’ll Need
You will also need:
– A screwdriver to open the computer case; just be very careful not to unplug, unscrew, or knock anything out of place!
– A can of compressed air.
– A computer-approved cleaning liquid such as rubbing alcohol or mild cleaning agent like dish liquid diluted down.
– Cotton swabs (Q-tips).
– A lint-free cotton cloth.
Tip: Wiping down the outside of your computer tower with a solution of one half vinegar and one half water will minimize static.
Before you begin, turn off your computer. Start by getting out all the dirt, hair, and dust with a vacuum. Do an extra good job around any ventilation locations as they will help to keep a steady airflow thereby keeping your internal components cooler.
When cleaning the fan, we suggest you hold the fan or place something inbetween the fan blades to prevent them from spinning. Avoid spraying compressed air into a fan or cleaning it with your vacuum since it may cause damage to some models.
Compressed air is great for getting all the crumbs, dust, and dirt out of your keyboard, but be sure to also wipe down the keys and surface of the keyboard.
When cleaning the monitor, use a lint-free cloth (like the one you use to clean your eyeglasses). Paper towels, dryer sheets, and other cloths may scratch the monitor. Also, never use Windex or a commercial cleaning product, and never spray anything directly onto the screen. Instead, lightly spray a mixture of rubbing alcohol and water onto your cloth and wipe it down.
Want Us To Clean Your Computer For You?
Want us to do the dirty work? Then give us a call at (734) 457-5000. We’re running our annual “System Spring Cleaning Special” for just $59 per computer.
Our Microsoft and A+ Certified Technicians will clean out your systems, check for viruses, spyware, and malware infections, and get your computer in top-running form for your busy summer months.
No more grime, germs, or dust bunnies—we’ll get rid of them all as part of our Spring-cleaning special!
Call us: (734) 457-5000 Or, you can e-mail us: info@MyTechExperts.com