How Do I Clean Inside My Computer?
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Clean the inside of the computer?
Are you kidding me?
Is that really necessary?
These are but a few of the questions I receive when I suggest to clients that they should clean out the inside of their computer once in a while. Most fail to see the importance of keeping the inside cleaned out and end up with major problems down the road. It really isn't as scary as it sounds!
Why Should I Clean the Inside of My Computer?
For a computer to run efficiently, it's all about the air flow. The components inside the computer need proper airflow to keep from overheating. Overheating can greatly shorten the life of your computer. Even worse, clogged fans can mean instant death. As a comparison, if you can imagine what would happen to a car's engine with no oil, then you understand how important proper cooling and airflow is for a computer.
What Tools Will I Need?
Figure 1 - Anti-Static Wrist Strap
(click to enlarge)
When cleaning the inside of your computer, there are a few tools that make the job a bit easier.
- Screwdriver - Depending on your computer, you may not need this tool. But, either way, you'll need to know ahead of time how to get your case open to expose the insides. You may need to refer to your computer's manual or contact the manufacturer for instructions.
- Anti-static Wrist Strap - While this $5 tool isn't an absolute must, it's good to use to prevent accidental electrostatic discharge (ESD). Simply wrap the strap around your wrist and secure it. Next, attach the metal clip to the metal chassis of your computer (see figure 1). If you decide to go without a strap, then at least keep yourself grounded by touching the metal chassis of your computer. Remember to keep in *constant* contact with the metal chassis.
- Compressed Air - A can of compressed air can be found at many stores for around $3-4 a can. Compressed air will save you a lot of time and make the job a lot easier. When using the canned air, be sure to keep the can upright while spraying. If you turn it upside down, the can will get extremely cold and you won't be able to hold it until it warms up again.
- Vacuum - A vacuum can be used to suck up leftover clumps of dust that may be in areas the compressed air couldn't get to. For example, without a vacuum it's difficult to get large clumps of dust out of the vents that are located behind the front panel of the computer. Always keep the vacuum away from the circuit boards to avoid static discharge.
Time to Get Started
How Often Should I Clean Inside My Computer?
Figure 2 - "Smoker's fan"
(click to enlarge)
How often you clean the inside of your computer varies on the environment your computer is in. If there is a lot of dust around, then you will want to clean it out several times a year or more. If you have very little dust, then you can probably get away with an annual cleaning. However, if your computer is around cigarette smoke, I recommend cleaning it out twice as often as you would in a smoke-free environment. Cigarette smoke leaves behind a very heavy brown residue on the insides of your computer (see Figure 2). If the residue builds up too much on your fans, they will cease to function, bringing instant death to your computer as it overheats.
What if my fan is noisy?
If you've got a noisy fan, it may need a more thorough cleaning or a good oiling!
Check out my lens on:
How Do I Repair a Noisy Computer Fan?
Just Curious...
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Comments
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Jerry Miller
Jun 22, 2011 @ 4:15 pm | delete
- Wow, that's scary! I just opened up my computer case. Now I see why it's groaning so much! Thanks for the tips dude!
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freecarguy
Jun 20, 2011 @ 10:07 am | delete
- Thanks for the anti-static tip man, I was totally overlooking it.
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JoshK47
Jun 18, 2011 @ 3:42 pm | delete
- It's been a long while since I've cracked mine open to clean it - I may do that later today, in fact.
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dani3l
Jun 13, 2011 @ 7:17 am | delete
- great info, i think it should be mentioned that using a vacuum is a risk vs reward scenario. Although it is the fastest and sometimes easiest way, there is ALWAYS that chance you could fry something with a vacuum. Using a vacuum under that right circumstances could produce ESD. Canned air contains gasses that are meant to deter static discharge and are safe for use, just be sure to hold upright when spraying.
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g8kepr
Jun 13, 2011 @ 11:47 am | delete
- I couldn't agree more. Always keep a vacuum away from circuit boards. It's good for sucking up huge clumps of dust that tend to hide in the front cover of the computer and in the vents. I made that text a bit bolder to emphasize the importance of this. Thanks!
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by g8kepr
Expert Tech Consulting
...providing computer tech support, repairs, upgrades, and consultation in Ohio for over 15 years.
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