CLEANING OUT AN ATX PC TOWER

One of the best ways to prolong the life of your computer is to keep it clean inside. The hardware inside the computer needs to be routinely cleaned out for several reasons. Dust inside the tower can cause a static discharge which may damage microchips or other components of the machine. Excess dust inside the PC case can also restrict the flow of air going through the machine. This can cause an increase in heat because the fans can no longer circulate air through the system efficiently. Too much dust can even be a fire hazard. Collection of microbes inside a computer case can also irritate allergies or be a cause for infections.

When ever working on computer hardware, especially when opening the case, I recommend having some kind of safety training in eletricity / electronics prior to performing the task. Above all else, make sure the computer is turned off, unplugged, and that you have properly discharged the residual power by holding down the power switch for 30 seconds. (after it's been unplugged)  Remember that many of the chips in a computer are made of fragile components, such as CMOS. (Complimentary Metal Oxide Semi-Conductors) After you have followed ALL of the above safety guidelines, ground for fingers out on the metal chassis to eliminate any static from your finger tips. DO NOT TOUCH ANYWHERE THAT MAY CONTAIN A RESIDUAL VOLTAGE. Make sure you watch the entire video and follow ALL the safety advise. If you have any reservations or questions, please contact a professional technician before attempting this procedure. After opening the case, it may also be a good idea to grab your digital camera and take a few pictures of how everything is connected and hooked up inside the computer. Don't forget about the position of any dip switches either. Draw a diagram if you need to.

The video will take you through the steps to clean out the inside of your computer case. It's actually a pretty simple task and can often be done in 10 or 15 minutes. The supplies for this
job include a Phillips Screwdriver, Small Flashlight, Damp Cloth (not wet), Tweezers, Nail Clippers (or other small cutting device), Zip Ties, A Standard #2 Pencil (Only for the eraser, do not stick the other end in the computer), a can of Compressed Air, and some Hand Sanitizer with an antibacterial in it.

STEPS:  

1) Make sure the computer is turned off. 

2) Unplug the machine and disconnect ALL exterior cables, 

3)  Move the computer case to an appropriate cleaning area. (usually outside, in a clean, dry area with good lighting)  

4)  Blast the exterior as seen in the video. 

5)  Remove the cover on the LEFT side of the computer case and place is a clean, safe spot out of the way. 

6)  Blast out the inside of the computer as shown in the video. 

7)  Inspect the components of the computer i.e. discrete components, cables, harnesses, sockets, and other parts of the computer that may have irregularities or potential failures. Also, make sure that the memory and expansion cards are secured in their spots. IF YOU SEE A CAPACITOR WITH A BULDGE, DO NOT HOOK THE COMPUTER BACK UP TO A POWER SOURCE. The motherboard, sound card, or other device with the bulging capacitor is field replaceable, YOU ARE NOT!  

8)  If everything looks ok, replace the Cleaned side cover and blast the exterior one more time.

9)  With a damp cloth, wipe down only the large exterior surfaces of the case, but stay away from any openings, ports, or connectors. Use the blower to get those other areas. 

10) you should be ready to hook it back up!!!

It's tempting for some people to leave out the dust plates that cover the open slots not being occupied by expansion cards, but these plates help prevent dust from entering the case. These long, slim plates should also have one screw in the top to hold them in their slot. Foe more help learning how to clean out your PC Case, you also SEE OUR VIDEO


We provide this service for clients at NorthCountyPCSolutions.com  in the Northern Section of San Luis Obispo County, California, including Santa Margarita, Atascadero, Templeton, and Paso Robles.