Pc Performance: Clean & Cool

One of the problems that causes the most damage with computer systems is heat. Computers produce a lot of heat; the harder we run them, the more heat they produce.

To keep the heat under control, computers are equiped with a wide variety of different cooling fans. Computers themselves are dirt magnets, and with larger cooling fans to control the heat, we are pulling in a large amount dust and other dirt along with the air.

Unfortunately, as this dust and dirt collects, it starts to accumulate even faster. As you can see in the first two photos, this fan is quite dirty, but is also partly operational.

The next fan is starting to collect a little hair near the centre, and that itself could help cause the fan motor to burn out prematurely.

Uncleaned, it is unavoidable that our system fans will get dirty, and eventually plug completely. As they become more plugged with dirt, they cool less, allowing more and more heat to build up, which eventually damages or destroys system components.

You should keep an eye on your computer fans and clean them when necessary. Depending on the environment, and whether or not there is carpet, it's a good idea to clean your fans every  3 to 6 months.

To clean the fans, simply unplug the computer system from power and use a canned air spray to blow the fans clean.

Also note that these sprays can often leave a layer of moisture on the parts, so it is a good idea to leave the computer unplugged for a while after spraying.

The photos to the right show various fans, which need to be clean before being reinstalled, with the exception of the blue drive cooler that has been cleaned up.

Don't forget to check the power supply fans as well. These tend to plug up more on the inside of the case then on the rear exhaust.

With your system unplugged, you should check the power supply vents and fans inside the case, and clean them out regularly too.

A power supply that is starting to overheat can be very hazardous; it is certain to have a much shorter operational life than a well cooled and clean power supply.