We’re here to talk about cleaning your computer, and we don’t mean disk clean-ups and temporary file removals – that’s a whole other subject! We mean physically removing dust and grime for the health of the machine (and for your health too!).
Why should I clean my computer?
Firstly, your health. We won’t go into the studies about how much bacteria lives on your keyboard and mouse, but let’s just say it isn’t good. In a post-Covid world, we’re all highly aware of how viruses get around, and that keyboard you touch every day is like a super-spreader event waiting to happen.
Secondly, your computer’s health. Dust and grime (and stray crumbs!) will affect a keyboard’s performance and, even more so, your computer’s performance. When it comes to computers, cool electronics are good electronics, but when your system’s cooling fans become clogged with dust, grime and/or pet hair their effectiveness is reduced. This can lead to overheating, which will ultimately slow down your computer and shorten the lifespan of your device. That means money out of your pocket for repair services or early replacement.
How often should I clean my computer?
Different situations will require more frequent cleaning – if your computer tower lives down on the floor, for instance, or if you have pets around – but a good rule of thumb is to give your computer a good once over every six months. (Of course, if you open up the box and discover a dust golem inside, you might want to shorten that span to every four months.)
How should I clean my computer?
Carefully!
Seriously, though, you can follow these steps:
- Turn the computer off and unplug all cords, flash drives and the like.
- Vacuum the outside of the computer only. (Vacuuming inside can generate static electricity which can damage delicate computer components.)
- Remove the panel for access to the computer interior. Use compressed air (meticulously following the instructions on the can) to dislodge visible dust, hair and dirt. *Remember – there may be a lot of accumulated dust: a drop-sheet under your tower while you clean can be a good idea.
- Clean up all of that grime you’ve released, then plug everything back in and you’re good to go!
You can also use compressed air in a can to give your keyboard a good dusting – unplug it first, remove the keys if possible and first give it an upside-down shake to remove larger items of debris, then use the air to remove dust and hair. (Note that, as with your computer tower, this can be an unpleasantly messy business – perhaps a job best done outside.)
What if I’m not sure this computer-cleaning-business is for me?
Don’t despair! And don’t just leave it to get worse! Our team at Geelong Technology Group have tackled some impressively dusty computers before, and we’re happy to do it again. We’re skilled at preventative maintenance, and we can let you know if your tower just needs a quick dust or a thorough deep clean.
From our workshop in Belmont, we help individuals and businesses in Geelong, Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast and surrounding regions – so let us know today if you need a hand with getting your personal computer (or multiple office computers) spick and span.
(03) 5244 3030
support@geelongtechnology.com.au