The Dangers of Dust in Your Computer

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By now, you’ve heard that the dust found in your computer could be harmful to it. But how could something as innocuous as dust be harmful to a computer?

Well, your computer requires airflow and cooling to prevent the components inside, such as the processor, hard drive, memory and graphics card, from overheating. Fans are the most common method of ensuring your computer gets enough airflow, and in turn, stays cool.

However, fans also move dust particles through your computer in addition to the cool outside air. If left long enough, the dust moving through your computer can build up on the fan and other components. When this happens, the dust acts as an insulator, which causes the components to run hotter than they normally would. And overheating is one of the most dangerous things you could allow your computer components to do because it significantly decreases your computer’s lifespan.

Dust can be removed from computers rather easily. The best way to remove dust buildup from your computer is with compressed air (you know, air in a can). You can grab a can or two for $5-10 from your local computer store.

Next, shutdown your computer and unplug it. Open the case carefully and spray out the dust with the compressed air. It’ll cause quite a mess outside your computer, so you may want to carefully move it to a room that’s easy to clean. While spraying, make sure you hold the can upright. If you start to turn the can sideways or upside-down, the air will freeze and the blast of moisture could damage components. Once you’ve sprayed the dust off of the components and out of the fans, put the computer cover back on, plug it in and boot it back up.

Note: You should always avoid using any kind of brush or vacuum to remove dust from inside your computer. Both could have potentially damaging effects due to static buildup and discharge.

Minneapolis-based OAC Technology can help keep your company’s computers running smoothly and effectively. We can review your business’s computers and provide personalized recommendations that fit your needs. With our Desktop and Laptop Support, we can help remove viruses, remove malware, clear up disk space, and optimize the settings of your computer to ensure your computer runs better than the day you bought it. Contact us today for a free consultation!

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