Cleaning Your Computer

Cleaning your computer isn't just for aesthetics.  It serves a vital role in keeping your pc running smoothly and without errors.  Accumulation of dust can act as an insulating barrier that could eventually lead to failure of fans, the power supply or the CPU.

Getting Started

Before you begin cleaning your PC, it is important to have the necessary cleaning supplies at hand.  We recommend a couple cans of compressed air and anti-static wipes.  You can also use a special computer vacuum specifically designed for computers to get the heavy dust and debris off first.

Start by cleaning all around the monitor, the keyboard and the case.  It's a good idea to turn the keyboard upside down and give it a few good shakes.  If you're brave, you can pop off the keys and soak them in a solution of ammonia and water, but be careful as not all keys come off easily; if you feel resistence, stop. Optical mice will require little maintenance, but ball mice can be disassembled.  Clean the ball itself as well as the X and Y axis rollers.

Unplug the computer from the wall.  The computer will require the fans to be blown out.  Some PCs have multiple fans in the case, one on the processor and one or two on the power supply.  Hit them all. 

If you feel the need to test fate, you can pull the memory and other cards and gently rub a pencil eraser on the contacts before putting them back in.  However, don't pull any cards out unless you're having problems reaching certain areas.

Remember, never open a CRT monitor.  Even when unplugged they retain enough current to serious harm you.