Users are often surprised by how much dust and dirt collect inside a computer even though the roof seems dust-free.
Computers collect even more dust when they’re placed on the floor, where they essentially act as air filters. All computers should be cleaned annually. If the computer has to be placed in a dirty or dusty location (such as a factory floor) cleaning should be schedule monthly.
When systems components are clear of dust and grime, they will last longer and function properly.
Most computer cases are constructed from metal to dissipate heat that is not exhausted. Objects placed around the case can block the vents and act as insulation for the case, preventing proper cooling of the computer. People also tend to push their computers back to free up desk space, thereby blocking rear exhaust ports.
Cleaning a PC
Keeping a PC clean take only a little time and pays off by extending the life of the equipment and making it more pleasant to use on a daily basis. If you've ever tried to use a PC with a sticky mouse, a grimy keyboard, or a dusty screen, you know firsthand what I'm talking about. Even though in most organizations, end-users are responsible for cleaning their own PCs, but they don't.
To clean a PC, you should have the following
1. Compressed air
2. Lint-free cleaning cloths (paper towels)
3. Ammonia-free monitor cleaner
4. Mild general-purpose cleaner for external plastic parts, or a mild soapy water
Follow these steps to practice cleaning a desktop PC
1. Shutdown the computer and unplug it from UPS
2. Using general-purpose cleaner or mild soapy water and paper towel, clean the keyboard as thoroughly as possible without disassembling it.
3. Using monitor cleaner, clean the monitor glass.
4. Using general-purpose cleaner, clean the plastic surfaces of the monitor.
5. Using general-purpose cleaner, clean the plastic surfaces of the outside of the PC.
6. Open up the PC case and with your fingers, fish out any clumps of dust and hair.
7. Using compressed air, blow out any remaining clumps of dust and hair. Clean dust from the fans in the PC power supply and CPU.
8. Your done, close up PC case.
www.valleycomp.net Jeff Tilton
