SandStorm IT

Power On

  • Services
    • Managed IT Services
    • Servers & Networks
    • Business Computers & Support
    • Cloud Services & Data Backup
    • Custom Software Development
    • VoIP Telephone Solutions
    • Custom Web Design
    • Disaster Recovery Solutions
    • Security & Compliance
    • IT Consulting
  • Technologies
  • Pricing
  • Work
  • About
    • Our History
    • Our Team
    • Careers
    • Press
  • Blog
  • Contact
    • (901) 475-0275
  • Help Me

How often should I physically clean my computer?

July 1, 2019 By Jeff Fowler

Most PC components have heat sinks which basically distribute heat evenly along a larger surface area to allow to the faster dissipation of heat, much like the radiator in your car. You’ll often notice these on the CPU (Typically the largest heat sink), video card, motherboard, RAM and other components. Fans move cooler air across these heat sinks to make this process more efficient.

 

If you ever wonder why a dirty computer sounds “louder”, it’s because the fans have to run faster to adequately cool the system because of the airflow restrictions associated with the dust. Since there’s a layer of dust on the components, the heat isn’t being removed efficiently and the fans are being pushed harder than if the system was clean. Besides making the computer louder, the excessive heat caused by dust/dirt/hair/etc. in the computer can cause fans/heat sink and other cooling devices to not function efficiently and can eventually lead to component failure.

 

 

How often should I physically clean my computer?

The short answer is: Anytime you start to notice dust building up on the exterior, it’s likely time for a cleaning. For most users, every 6 months or so should suffice to keep your PC running nice and clean.

 

For a more specific answer: It depends on a few factors. The environment that a computer is exposed to is a major factor. A computer that’s located in an industrial clean room would rarely need cleaning, whereas a desktop computer running a CNC machine in a cabinet shop would require more frequent maintenance.

 

Generally speaking, laptops are usually taken better care of and stored in cases/bags, desktops are often left in place for extended periods of time and will likely need cleaning more often. Another major factor on how dirty a desktop gets is actually where it’s located. A desktop sitting on the ground will need cleaning more often than one that’s in a shelf inside of the desk.

 

Some cases have special dust filters than require cleaning more often, but the filters are easier to get to and catch the majority of the dust. The trade-off behind this concept is much easier cleaning more often, which has its pros and cons. Another factor to consider is pets. If they are around, their hair may make its way into the computer.

 

If your computer is running slow and you’re not sure why, feel free to contact SandStorm IT at 901-475-0275. We’re more than happy to help you get your PC running healthy again!

Related Posts

  • Five Things to Consider When Purchasing a New Computer
  • Five Things to Consider When Purchasing a New Computer
  • Are you still running your business on spreadsheets?
  • What are the best ways to combat computer infections?
  • What is cryptojacking and how does it affect me?

Categories: Business, Hardware & Peripherals, Personal Computing, Tips/Tricks/Shortcuts

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Check your inbox or spam folder now to confirm your subscription.

SANDSTORM IT BLOG

Featured
News
Press Releases
SandStorm News
Security Alerts & Vulnerabilities
Managed Services
Managed Anti-Virus/Anti-Malware
Managed Backups & Monitoring
Updates/Patches
Passwords
Cybersecurity
Spyware/Malware/Viruses
Social Engineering/Phishing
Ransomware
Data Breaches/Leaks
Other
Servers
Server & Server Hardware
Cloud/Serverless Computing
Server Operating Systems
Networking
Wired Networking
Wireless/Wi-Fi
Internet of Things (IoT)
5G & Mobile Networking
Business
General Business
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
Voice & Telephony
Backups & Business Continuity
On-Site Backups
Cloud Backups
DR/BCM Planning & Consulting
Personal Computing
Tips/Tricks/Shortcuts
Troubleshooting
Hardware & Peripherals
Desktop Operating Systems
Software & Applications
Office Applications
Desktop Software
Email Software and Applications

Authors

Authors
Doyle Sanders
Jake Sanders
Jordan Sanders
Justin Oliver
Matt Ballard
Robert Cleveland
Cristian Colón
Jacob Ellis
Jeff Fowler
Miker Irick
Curtis Mayo
Josh Restuccio
Lindsey Sanders
Matthew Stafford
Josh Yarbrough

Give Us a Call

(901) 475-0275
61 Atoka-McLaughlin Dr.
Atoka, TN 38004

About SandStorm IT

SandStorm IT is a team of committed professionals who are dedicated and excited to solve your technology needs.  We accomplish this through understanding your business and then applying the appropriate technology solutions to meet the needs.

Our breadth of experience with information technology covers a range of diverse skill sets such as server setup and configuration, network and firewall solutions, VoIP telephone systems, web and database hosting, custom web application programming, mobile development, and IT security practices and policies.

SandStorm IT has the desire, expertise, and commitment to bring your vision to life.

  • Services
  • Technologies
  • Pricing
  • Work
  • About
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Help Me
Authorized Solution Provider