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Article Title: The Importance Of Maintaining Your CPU & System Fans

Article Author: Daryl Quenet
Article Category: HOW-TO Guides
Times Read: 4302
Date: 2005-07-14 20:00:00
Pages: 2

Now there are several ways to clean a fan, and some are more foolhardy then others. I myself can be rather foolhardy when it comes to dealing with George (my computer). I use the vacuum approach, and I am very careful about it (it is a rather low powered vacuum). The most dangerous part of this approach is the potential to vacuum jumpers right off of the motherboard. I myself have never done this, but I have heard stories from people. I would not recommend this approach, but as I said before my machine builds up a lot of dust and fast, so I need an industrial solution (George also doesn’t like to move except for LAN Parties).

Now the best way, and most commonly used way in computer stores is the use of compressed air. Now you can either use compressed air in an aerosol can, or an air compressor. An air compressor is the better approach, as it is a one time cost. If you already have a compressor, I would recommend the attachment for blowing up basketballs (high air flow through a small hole). When I’m not using the Vacuum, I like to use compressed air. As for recommendations for compressed air I would recommend MG Chemicals Super Duster 134 (I use industrial size), here is what the can says.

Removes dust, lint and foreign particles. Ideal for preventative maintenance on electronic, electrical, optical equipment and mechanical devices, such as; cash registers, computers, keyboards, audio and video equipment and ATM’s. Contains no ozone depleting substances.

Now regardless of what brand you buy of compressed air always make sure it mentions electronic equipment, and it leaves no residue. The last thing you want is some aerosol can creating static electricity within you case. So once you have gotten a hold of your air source, take your computer outside (unless you don’t mind a little dust or your vacuuming) and fire at will on the fans. If there is dust on the bottom of the case the safest option is to gently use a cloth to remove the particles. Remember this is your computer, and it deserves a little tender loving care.