Computer fans pull a lot of dust inside the chassis. If undisturbed, the dust can interfere with ventilation, eventually causing parts to fail. If you have a service contract that covers maintenance, have your computer taken apart and professionally cleaned. Otherwise, follow these steps.
Instructions
1.Check your owner's manual. If the manufacturer has provided specific instructions, follow them.2.Get any supplies you might need: a can of compressed air, Endust for Electronics or any household plastic or metal cleaning fluid, a soft brush (such as a paintbrush) and an anti-static rag, plus a dust mask if you're allergic to dust.
3.Shut down the computer.
4.Leave the computer plugged into the surge suppressor.
5.Disconnect all peripherals from the computer.
6.Remove the computer cover (see your owner's manual for instructions).
7.Ground yourself to the computer with any professional grounding equipment you have. Otherwise, ground yourself by touching a metal part of the chassis.
8.Spray compressed air on the fan blades, power supply chassis, drive chassis and circuit boards.
9.Gently brush off dust that the forced air didn't dislodge.
10.Brush any remaining dust out from the bottom of the chassis.
11.Spray Endust for Electronics or another cleaning fluid onto an anti-static rag.
12.Wipe the inside and outside of the cover thoroughly.
13.Replace the cover and reconnect the peripherals.
Tips & Warnings
If possible, work in an uncarpeted area.Be careful not to touch any chips. Touch as little as possible inside your machine. Static damage (and even oil damage) may cause a failure months after the incident.
Some sources recommend using a regular or specialty electronics vacuum cleaner. These appliances could cause magnetic damage or static electricity, or dislodge or inhale poorly secured chips or components.
