Nine Steps To Properly Clean Your Home Computer

Nine Steps To Properly Clean Your Home Computer (PC)
In one of our previous articles I discussed why you need to clean your computer on a regular basis. In this article we will go through the steps to properly clean your PC just like a professional would.

In Part One we will be concentrating on the PC unit itself. I will be submitting other articles on how to clean other components (peripherals) such as keyboard�s, mouse�s, printer�s ect�

The main thing is to take your time - don�t rush this procedure. Use good common sense.

Let�s start first with some of the supplies that you will need:�

A can of compressed airA good household plastic or metal cleaning fluid (Endust for Electronics works great)A small paint brushAn anti-static ragMost of these supplies can be picked up at one of the "Big Chain Stores" or maybe at one of your local retailers. If you can�t find these please shoot me an email and I�ll sell you the items at a nominal price.

That�s pretty much it as far as the materials go.

Here we go!

Step One: . . . . .

Read your owner's manual. Sometimes the manufacturer will provided specific instructions on how to clean your PC. If this is the case follow the manufacturer�s cleaning procedure.

Step Two: . . . . .

Shut down the computer. I know this is common sense but� Make sure the computer is turned off, however leave it plugged in to your surge suppressor.

Step Three: . . . . .

Disconnect all other components (peripherals) from the computer. Disconnect keyboard, mouse, printer, speakers, ect�

Step Four: . . . . .

Remove the computer�s outer cover, this is usually done by taking out the screws along the sides and bottom, however each machine is different and some may even snap apart.

(see your owner's manual for instructions). NEVER USE A MAGNETIC SCREWDRIVER AROUND YOUR COMPUTER!!!

Step Five: . . . . .

Ground yourself to the computer with a professional grounding strap or you can ground yourself by touching a metal part of the chassis. Static electricity is your number one concern at this point. You can actually transfer static electricity to your system and damage components.

Step Six: . . . . .

Spray compressed air on the fan blades, power supply chassis, drive chassis and circuit boards.

Step Seven: . . . . .

Gently and lightly brush off any dust that the compressed air wasn�t able to dislodge. Brush any remaining dust out from the bottom of the computer chassis.

Step Eight: . . . . .

Spray your cleaning fluid onto an anti-static rag or use Endust for Electronics and wipe the inside and outside of the computer cover thoroughly. Make sure there is no moisture left anywhere in the case.

NEVER SPRAY CLEANING FLUID DIRECTLY IN OR ONTO ANY COMPONENT

Step Nine: . . . . .

Replace the computer�s cover and reconnect the components (peripherals).