When it comes to housecleaning, the last thing we consider to clean are our useful computers. We usually neglect cleaning our computers, even though we see and use them regularly, this could be due to the fact we don’t know how. At Heroes and Geeks computer repair in Los Angeles, when someone drops off their computer for repair, 9 out of 10 times the computer is in dirty conditions. We’ve seen it all, laptop screens with fingerprint marks, accumulated dust clinging to fans, food particles in between keyboard keys, and scratched and scuffed up computers. Computers are fragile and expensive equipment and we should take better care of them.
To get started on your computer cleaning, you can purchase a computer cleaning kit at any computer goods store or online. The tools you should look for are a pressurized duster, a computer brush, an lcd cleaning spray or wipes, and a microfiber cloth. The pressurized duster is good for blowing away dust from the fan and even your keyboards. The brush will be useful for sweeping away dust and crumbs from the keyboard. Wipe away fingerprint smudges from your monitors with an LCD cleaning spray or wipes. The microfiber cloth will be useful for regular dusting and wiping off your computers LCD and surfaces.
The following are tips to keep in mind to care for your computer and prevent unnecessary damages:
1. To prevent overheating your computer or laptop, use your devices in a well ventilated space. Make sure your computers exhaust fan is not being blocked by anything so the air can flow freely and keep your computers cool. Also, the fan and the insides of a computer can collect a bunch of dust after a period of time, so it’s best to get it cleaned and dusted by a computer repair professional– some offer onsite services. Once or twice yearly, internal cleaning will help keep the computer cool and dust free.
2. Avoid eating and drinking next to your computer. Food particles can get trapped underneath your keyboards keys and can block a key from functioning. A small paint brush can be used to sweep in between your keys to remove dust and food particles from your keyboard. Liquids and electronics don’t mix, if liquid comes into contact with your computer, you can damage the motherboard, short circuit the electrical wiring, and it can cause permanent damage to some computer parts. If you must have a drink next to your computer, put your beverage in a container that can be sealed and also place your beverage a few feet away from your computer. Prevention is key to avoid food and liquid damage to your computer.
3. Keep dust and dirt away by regularly wiping down all surfaces of your computer with a microfiber towel. Remove finger print marks from your LCD monitors by using a computer cleaning spray and a towel. Combat germs and bacteria from spreading by using disinfectant wipes on your keyboard, mouse and even your cell phones and also by washing your hands before touching your computer.
4. Don’t yank on the power cord when unplugging from the power supply that can damage the plug by bending the prongs. Pull from the plugs base and not the cord. Protect your power cord from stepping or rolling on it, have the cord behind the desk and away from walking space or chairs
5. Protect your computers from scratches and stains by being careful and being aware of your surroundings. Don’t leave sharp and heavy objects near or on your computers. Prevent stains by washing your hands before using your computer as well as avoiding eating near your computer.
Follow the above mentioned tips to keep your computers running well and looking brand new. Regular upkeep of your computer will prevent unnecessary computer repairs. Prevention is the best method of combating computer damage.
Stay tech savvy, my friends.
