How to Clean inside the Computer

Dust inside the computer can cause your computer to go down in performance or in the worst case scenario, some important components to fail. If your computer has started to make a lot of noise or if you see dust on the fans, it may be time to clean it inside.

You can start it by downloading all the necessary tools. You need a screwdriver to open up the computer case and a can of compressed air.  A vacuum cleaner may also be needed to clean up around the computer afterwards, but never use a vacuum cleaner or a duster inside the computer. It is because, a vacuum cleaner or a duster can generate static electricity and that can destroy the computer components.

To begin with, turn off your computer and unplug all the cables. Most computers also have a switch on the back of the chassis, the power supply. Most people do not think about this, but turn it also for the sake of safety. Do not leave any cables plugged into your computer while you clean it, especially not to the power supply and the display.

Move the computer to a suitable place where you can clean it well. If you have not cleaned it for a long time, it can contain a lot of dust. So choose a place with good exposure to air. To clean the computer outdoors can be a good idea and can save a lot of time because you do not have to clean up afterwards.

After unscrewing and lifting the sides of the computer case, you can start to clean it by blowing air into the computer. Some important things to consider are:

·         Always keep the air can upright. If you hold it upside down or on its side, it can get out of liquid, which can destroy computer components when you turn it on again.

·         The air from a compressed air bottle is very cold. Keep it at some distance from the computer to avoid damaging the components of the computer.

·         Never touch the computer components with your hands as this may cause a static discharge. If you must touch the components with your hands, ground yourself first by taking for example the sink or heater.

·         It can blow up a lot of dust, try not to inhale it. It may be a good idea to use some type of mask.

Be especially careful to clean the fan on the processor heat sink. The heatsink sits over the processor and the piece of metal sticking up from the motherboard. If the fan is not working, it is a great risk that the processor overheats, leading to performance degradation and the computer hangs frequently.

When you are done, simply screw the sides of the computer again and reconnect all cables. Now the computer will hopefully work well because the fans do not have to work as hard to cool the computer. The components getting sufficient cooling will also extend the lifespan of them.