Once your PC is up and running, you might notice a lot of dust building up. Or things don't move as fast as they used to when you first built the machine. It's probably time for cleaning. Here's an easy guide to cleaning your PC.
Hardware
Before you make any cleaning decisions, turn that PC off and unplug the power cable!
Computers that have been around for a while get dusty. Dust primarily builds up on the fans that keep your PC cool.
The dirtiest parts of a case are usually the top and bottom since this is where the dust settles. Wipe down the exterior of your case with a damp cloth.
Hot components will cause slowdowns. On the inside of your PC, take a can of compressed air to clear dust from any dust filters. Other dust can be wiped away, carefully.
Take electrostatic wipes or a microfiber cloth to clean your screen, keyboard, etc.
If possible, look to move your PC somewhere ventilated, otherwise the dust will settle back on the computer.
This is also a good opportunity to do some cable management on the inside and out of your machine!
Software
New OS and driver updates help improve performance. If your computer is behind on these updates, it may cause slowdowns. Updates also address flaws and security issues.
Open the Windows start menu, and click the Settings icon on the left. Click Update & Security.
Cleaning out unnecessary files is another way to help your computer last longer.
Empty your Recycle Bin. Files build up there over time, so clearing it now and then is good practice.
Clean your Downloads folder regularly, and find and delete temp files.
Also, look at all the apps and programs you have. Decide which ones you use frequently and uninstall the ones you don’t.
Sometimes a fresh start is needed. Reinstalling Windows or Linux is a great way to speed up your PC and get rid of any systematic problems.
Wrapping Up
Keep a can of compressed air, some microfiber cloths, and electrostatic wipes handy. They make cleaning the components a breeze.
The next best thing you can do for your PC is to clean out unnecessary files or software.
And if all else fails, go for a complete wipe!
Here are some tools that can make cleaning the inside and outside of your PC a lot faster:
- Compressed Air
- Electrostatic Wipes
- Microfiber Cloths
- Software: DiskWipe
- Software: WinDirStat
