Ultimately keeping computers clean will promote a longer life span. Here are some of the pitfalls that require your attention in maintaining your computer equipment.

A PC’s fan does not remove dust: fans within a computer are designed to cool the circuitry; ironically most fans are made of plastic and actually attracts dust (static electricity) rather than blow it away.

Locating a PC directly on carpet increases the amount of particulates that can enter; PC’s will pull in lose carpet fibers and dust accumulating within the pile. If it is on solid surface floor, the PC may be exposed to moisture from mopping.

The dust itself does not damage the equipment however over time the fans’ operation is diminished and overheating componentry will impair performance. Blocking a fan’s heat exhaust will have the same outcome.

PC keyboards are compiled of multiple moving parts where dust can collect, each key has a switch underneath that signals the computer with a command. When grim is left to amass, a keyboard’s ability to communicate with the PC is compromised.  Your computer mouse is subject to this same problem.

Taking time to dust these items will increase your computer equipment’s health; here are some tips on how:

• Turn off the computer.
• Beware if you haven’t ever cleaned your computer, think about where best to handle the job, it could get messy.
• If you are going to move the computer somewhere else to clean, than mark where all the plugs and cables reside so you can reconnect with ease; do not depend on memory.
• A vacuum is handy for extracting dust and hair particles that surround the computer, but experts recommend using canned or compressed air to blast out the dust within the PC, mouse, and keyboard. A vacuum can create static electricity which can damage the electronic workings within the computer and its components.
• Do not use liquid cleaners or sprays directly on equipment; moisture and circuitry do not mix. In some cases you can apply the cleaner to a cloth, such as the exterior casing of the PC; however make sure the cleaner is friendly to electronic equipment.

• Use a microfiber cloth to clean computer monitors dampened with plain water, ammonia products and paper towels can diminish screen surfaces.
• After cleaning and putting all the cabling back in place, evaluate the location of your PC. If your computer is not getting good air circulation or can be exposed to moisture; now is the time to preposition for optimal ventilation.

Do you have moisture issues, see Delta Adsorbents website for products that can help.