Few people ever bother to pull the cover off of their computer case. Over time dust buildup inside the case can cause your computer to overheat. Learn how to clean it!
Every computer has one or more fans inside that circulate air past the processor and other parts to keep them cool. In the process these same fans pull in tiny particles of dust that eventually stick and build up on the electronic components inside the case as well as on the exterior grill around the fan's ports. Computer processors produce a lot of heat, and even a thin coating of dust acts like a blanket, insulating the processor and making it heat up higher than it should. If the processor gets too hot it simple shuts down or, worse yet, fries itself. Luckily keeping your computer clean is a very easy task.
To clean up your computer you need a vacuum cleaner with a detachable hose, a bottle of compressed air (available at any computer or discount store), and possibly a screwdriver. Use the screwdriver to remove the computer's case after unplugging the computer's power supply. Without touching the components, hold the vacuum hose close to the dusty parts inside, turn it on, then use the compressed air to gently blow the offending dust off of its perch. The vacuum should collect most of the dust as it is blown off. Before replacing the cover use the vacuum hose to clean the grills on both sides of the computer case as well. Replace the cover, plug the power supply back in, and you are done.
