PC Cleaning

[Vector01]

Hi All:

 

We are all aware of having the correct anti-virus and general security software to keep our PC's running smoothly. Amazingly a lot of people are unaware about cleaning the inside of the PC. Unless you've actually done this you will be suprised at the amount dust and dirt that can accumulate on the fans as well as inside the case.

 

I was recently reminded about this when during boot up, I noticed some unusual noises coming from one of the fans. I normally try and clean the PC every 3-4 months on a regular basis. Thinking back, I hadn't cleaned it since March of 09 (just happened to coincide when I bought my scroll saw)

[attachment=0]pccln2.jpg[/attachment]

 

This is an easy process. What I use to clean up the inside is a 1-1/2" soft bristle paint brush, a can of aerosol dust remover, anti-static wristband and the brush and nozzle attachments for my shop vac.

 

Once you have the PC powered off and disconnected, place it where you can look into and get at the chassis and fans. I normally use the kitchen table. It keeps it at eye level. Next remove the side panel(s). After removing the panels and before you go sticking your fingers in the case, connect your ant-static wristband. This will prevent damage to your motherboard or other devices from static discharge.

[Vector01]

PC Cleaning II

 

I then use my brush attachment on the vac to clean the vents on the outside of the case. The next step is to carefully clean the intake and exhaust fans using the paint brush. I found that holding the blades from rotating while cleaning helps loosen the dust from the blades. These are the only things I clean with the brush. If you have a video/game card installed with a fan, do not attempt to clean it with anything but aerosol dust cleaner. Do not attempt to clean the motherboard or any other peripheral devices using the brush. These can be damaged easily.

[attachment=0]pccln3.jpg[/attachment]

 

As you can see from the picture, there is a large amount of debris collecting at the bottom of the case. Depending how much dust are on the fans the paintbrush will normally do the job. If they are really caked up You can use a non-magnetic screwdriver and remove the fans from the case. After removal you can clean the blades using a dry qtip.

[Vector01]

PC Cleaning III

 

After cleaning the fans, I use the nozzle attachment on my vac to remove the debris from the bottom of the case. The removal of debris from the fans prevents the fan blades from running off balance which reduces performance. With the fans cleaned you will maintain the proper air flow through the PC which will help in keeping down the internal case temperature. This will also prevent premature failure by reducing the strain on the fan bearings. This is the only area you should be using the attachment. Again, poking around with this in other areas could damage your PC.

 

Once the majority of the dust has been picked up, I use the "moisture free" air duster to blow off the the fans and any accumulation of debris on the rest of the internals. This is where you can safely clean the cooling fins of the cpu fan, motherboard, soundcards, etc.

 

Almost done. Now I use the brush attachment on the vac and clean the outside of the case (intake/exhaust vents) again. One last vac of the bottom of the case with the nozzle attachment and you are finished. Replace and reconnect any fans you removed, the side panels, hook up your cables and your good to go. After this cleaning I didn't have the unusual fan noise on startup.