11 replies to this topic

[Broni]

We surely often recommend cleaning the inside of the computer case to solve various problems.
I have to admit to being one of the helpers, who may get lazy about that important part of computer maintenance.
When I bought this Vista desktop year, and a half ago, the temperatures were pretty constant at about 19C-20C (while idle with maybe couple of windows open).
Then, pretty much recently those temps started to rise, and recently they were floating from upper 20s to even low 40s.
Finally, I opened the case today, and obviously there was a lot of dust inside.
Honestly, I was surprised how bad it was. I have a carpet, but the computer case is elevated couple of feet, so I really didn't expect that much.
Mostly fans, and around them.
Video card fan wasn't that bad, since it's pretty much open, but the CPU fan was really bad, and since it works in a box sitting on CPU heatsink, the heatsink was packed with dirt.
I cleaned everything well, and....as of now, with Firefox, and Thunderbird windows open, the temperature is listed as 14C-15C!
On average, 20 degrees cooler!
I'm pretty sure, my CPU feels pretty happy.

Spring cleaning time, people!!

[dobhar]

Man I just cleaned out my PC yesterday... http://www.smartestc...tyle_emoticons/default/ohmy.gif

[dobhar]

[jephree]

I've recently run across a rash of user problems regarding power issues.

One main symptom has been the inability to start the computer without using the power cord to plug/unplug into the mains (power outlet).

Curiously enough 75% of these issues were resolved by cleaning the computer.

I think most of the general public never even consider opening the case.

Thanks for the thread!

[Broni]

You bet :)

[dobhar]

One of the things we do at work is clean out a computer whenever we work on it and we use canned air. One thing to be careful when using an air line in a commercial building...they may have oil in the lines to help lubricate the air guns so using an air hose to blow out you computer may end up with an oil mist being sprayed on your motherboard. I would recommend Canned Air.

It probably would have taken about 4 or 5 cans to clean out those pc's I posted about above... LOL

[Harry The Cat]

First thing I do when I bring a used computer home is treat it to a good old Marine Corps de-sanding party.
How does that work?..you ask. Simple. Pop the cover, hold it with one hand while on my chest freezer in the garage and BLOW THE HELL out of it with the leaf blower.
OH MY GOD..you say! BULL, I've been doing it that way for years with no ill effects yet.

To each his own..........................

[Broni]

It must be a lot of static flying....you must have a lot of luck :)

[woodworker]

dobhar, in the air lines there will also be moisture, especially if it is a home system.

[Smokey]

I don't use an leaf blower like Harry does but if that's all that was available I would. Static is not a problem when you use air. I use my 180 psi air compressor and blow the heck out of them. I just don't get too close to the mobo, just the components. Some of the computers that I clean are unbelievable.

[Broni]

Doesn't the leaf blower air fly through huge, PLASTIC tube?
That would create some static, wouldn't it?

[Smokey]

Broni, on Mar 5 2009, 01:12 PM, said:

Doesn't the leaf blower air fly through huge, PLASTIC tube?
That would create some static, wouldn't it?

No. Two solids rubbing against each other create friction, friction creates static electricity. If air rushing through a plastic tube created static electricity those cans of compressed air would also create static electricity.