Sunday, October 16, 2011

The Importance Of Cleaning Your Computer

By Bernard Bowers


Proper maintenance is synonymous with good performance and this is true with your computer. Pay particular attention to the computer's ventilation system and you will be spared of the common problem of overheating. A regular cleaning session can save on maintenance and repairs, if not replacement costs as well.

Before you start cleaning your computer, make sure it is switched off and disconnected from the power source. This one is important - verify the validity period of your computer's manufacturer's warranty before poking inside the unit. If the machine is still under warranty, you may find that it will become void if you open the case.

The inside of the computer is its brain, so avoid any contact with its components and linkages. Clean the insides with tender loving care, and avoid using harmful or abrasive substances and inappropriate or improvised tools as cleaning equipment. Keep the blower or the can if you are using compressed air a good distance away from any parts, and make sure that you are blowing away the dusts in the right direction. The fans of the computer can be easily damaged so blow air into it at a safe distance. Instead of continuous blowing, you'll get better results with intermittent burst of air into the fan, and keep the can a good distance away. Ideally, the computer should be cleaned at 6 to 8 months intervals, more often if you are a smoker or if the unit is exposed to hairs from pets that frequent the area. There are cleaning products that are ideal for monitor screens and keyboards while rubbing alcohol will do for the casings and other surfaces. Dampen the cotton swabs with rubbing alcohol to clean the surface areas of the computer of dirt and other smudges, but be careful that the cotton swabs are not soggy as it can drip and cause damage. Before you clean the keys, gently turn the keyboard upside down and give it a little shake - you'll be surprised at what falls out from between them! Blow away with the can of compressed air any wedged dirt that remains after you have tipped over and shaken the keyboard, then you can use the damp cotton swab to clean the keys. Use also cotton swabs and rubbing alcohol in cleaning the mouse.

You can use clean water and lint-free cloth to clean LCD monitor instead of the special cleaning products without losing anything. Never spray liquid onto the screen. Dampen the cloth with water, or spray screen cleaner on to it, and gently wipe dust and fingerprints off the monitor. Do not use rubbing alcohol or ammonia based substances on CRT monitors, use instead the ordinary glass cleaner.

A regular cleaning session will help your computer run better, for longer, with less expensive repairs and maintenance required. A little time and effort to clean your computer will spare you many possible problems.




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