Precautions for computer repair and cleaning

 

Computer safety procedures—please keep in mind these safety precautions for computer repair and cleaning:

Never spray cleaning liquids directly unto any part of your computer. Why?

Because contact with liquids may cause sensitive electronic equipment to malfunction, or corrode. Instead, spray liquids unto your cloth or other implement and then wipe away dust and grime from non-sensitive surfaces.

Do not spray canned compressed air with the can upside down. Why?

Because liquid air may come out and damage computer electronics. Instead, Always keep the canned air in a vertical position with the spray nozzle on top and use short bursts of air.

Do not touch any internal cpu component without wearing an anti-static wrist band or using an anti-static mat. Why? Static is a great enemy of sensitive electronics. A mild static charge can ruin your computer, and the static that commonly build up in the human body will kill it dead instantly. Instead, wear a properly grounded anti-static wrist strap or work on an anti-static mat. At the same time, keep the computer on a stable platform above the floor.

Do not use a standard vacuum to clean inside your computer. Why?

A normal vacuum builds up a tremendous amount of static electricity, which will kill your computer on accidental contact. Instead, use a vacuum specifically designed for cleaning computers being very careful not to touch any internal components, or do not use a vacuum at all.

Do not attempt to clean the inside of a computer monitor. Why?

It may retain a high voltage even when unplugged. Instead, leave monitor repairs and cleaning of the interior to a professional.

Unplug the computer monitor and allow it to cool before cleaning. Why?

It is usually not advisable to apply liquids to an electrified item. The monitor carries a high voltage.

Do not leave a computer plugged in while cleaning unless you are certain there is not a "wake" feature that could activate. Why? 

The computer may turn on while you are cleaning or repairing it and cause damage to itself or you. Instead, unplug all electrical items before working on them.

Do not touch an lcd screen with your fingers. Why?

You may short out the pixels and ruin it. Instead, use a soft anti-static, lint-free cloth as recommended by the manufacturer to clean dust and debris from the screen.

Do not use an unapproved liquid to clean your lcd screen. Why?

The wrong solution may remove or damage special anti-glare coatings on the screen. Instead, use the liquid cleaner recommended by the manufacturer.

Clean up the general area surrounding your computer before beginning. Why?

It wouldn't make sense to leave dust and dirt in the area to get sucked back into your computer after it is cleaned as well as re-contaminate the external parts. Moving the equipment around will stir up surrounding dust, allowing it to settle in and around your computer. Cleaning your PC is essential to keep your data safe and extend the life of your equipment.