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 How to
clean inside your computer case safely.
Free Computer Help By Mitz
How often do you clean your computer case, inside
and out?
Did you realize that having a clean computer is a necessity for the system to run at its optimal
levels? Having dust and dirt build up inside your computer case can restrict the
airflow and cause serious damage to your components. One common example is when
dust gathers on the heat sink and fan. If left there it can eventually cause the
processor to overheat and shutdown the computer without warning.
The main factor to consider when you clean inside
your
computer case is safety. If you are not familiar with opening a computer case and the
precautions you have to take, please
read this article first.
There are important steps to complete before starting to clean your system like
removing all plugs from the computer.
Acceptable Tools to use to clean inside your
computer case.
You don't need all the fancy cleaning tools
available. Everyday household items will do. Here is a list of some of the tools
I use to clean my computer.
Clean Inside your computer case
- Soft paint brush: I use this when an
air compressor is not available. Gently brush the dust from inside the case.
Make sure you do not accidentally move any wires or connections.
- Air compressor: I would choose to use
this before anything. Its quick and easy and removes dust properly. Do not go
too close to the motherboard though. It will work fine from a distance. It is
also best to remove the cpu fan and clean that separately.
-
Compressed air can:
When you clean inside your computer case,
this disposable
compressed air can that will blow the dust out. Be sure to keep the can upright,
otherwise it will leak liquid. Always read the instructions on the can.
(Pictured left.)
- Vacuum: Some people use this to suck the
dust from inside their computer case, however a normal household one will not
do. It is best to use a battery operated, handheld vacuum specifically designed
for this purpose. Household vacuums cause static electricity which can damage
your computer components.
- Dust Mask: This is great for those really
dusty old computers. I don't think it would be very healthy to breathe it all
in.
Cleaning the exterior and components
- Water: Use water sparingly. It should
only be used to slightly dampen your cloth. You do not want water dripping all
over your computer.
- Rubbing alcohol: I always choose to use
this before water as it evaporates fast. It is also great for cleaning dirt and
oily marks from the inside the computer case, mouse and keyboard.
- Cloth: (lint free) You should use a cloth
to clean the exterior of the case, the mouse, cords, and keyboard. Only slightly
damp. Fold your cloth over a few times to get in between the keys on the
keyboard.
- Vacuum: You can use a vacuum cleaner to
extract dust and food crumbs from your keyboard. Do not use it to clean inside
your computer case as it may damage your components.
- Cotton Wool or Swabs: Also good for
reaching those hard to reach places.
- Car dash oil: This is great for blending
in scratches on monitors and sometimes cases, like a Dell GX270 desktop. Don't
use too much, as you do not want it dripping into the monitor air vents.
- Eucalyptus oil: I use this to remove
permanent pen from monitors or cases. Just put some on a cloth and rub on
the writing and it will start to dissolve.
- Cleaning your inside your computer case regularly, can prolong its
working life. We could all do with less computer troubles and this is an easy
task for most people. Removing things like dust, smoke residue, dirt, or pet
hair can leave your system to breathe freely.
- So why not clean inside your computer case now.
You will be shocked at the amount of dust and dirt that is in there.
- Don't forget to read
How To Open a Computer Case
Safely. And
Dust Build up Inside Your Computer Power Supply
Browse Tips4pc.com for more articles
About the Author
Mitz Pantic wrote this article
and others for
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that are written in an easy to understand interface and FREE computer help.
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