5 Tips for Extending the Life of Your Laptop
Ah, the trusty laptop – our constant companion in the digital age. Whether you’re a busy professional, a passionate student, or a casual web surfer, your laptop is probably the most essential gadget in your arsenal. And let’s face it, these little powerhouses don’t come cheap. That’s why it’s crucial to keep them running like new for as long as possible.
As a self-proclaimed laptop whisperer, I’ve learned a thing or two about extending the lifespan of these portable wonders. From keeping them clean and cool to optimizing their battery performance, I’m here to share my top 5 tips to help you get the most out of your laptop investment.
Tip 1: Keep It Clean and Tidy
Let’s start with the basics, shall we? One of the most important things you can do to prolong your laptop’s life is to keep it spick and span. [1] As the ASUS team wisely points out, “It’s common sense that electricity and water aren’t a good combination. Unfortunately, liquids or breadcrumbs and laptop keyboards, for example, aren’t either.”
That’s why I always make sure to keep my laptop far away from any potential spill zones. I’ve learned the hard way that a rogue coffee mug can turn your keyboard into a sticky mess in the blink of an eye. To avoid this disaster, I make sure to keep my beverages at least 20-30 centimeters away from my trusty companion.
And let’s not forget about those pesky little dust bunnies. [1] To keep your laptop looking and performing its best, I highly recommend investing in a soft microfiber cloth, some 75% rubbing alcohol, and an air blaster. Trust me, a little bit of regular maintenance can work wonders.
Tip 2: Pamper Your Battery
Next up, let’s talk about keeping that battery in tip-top shape. [1] As the ASUS team explains, “Even the most impressive laptop battery life can deteriorate over time. It’s important to optimize the battery settings for increased longevity.”
One of the best things you can do is to keep your laptop plugged in as much as possible when you’re at your desk. Contrary to popular belief, overcharging your battery is not as much of an issue as you might think. [1] In fact, ASUS has ensured that when your computer reaches full charge, the power cord simply stops providing electricity until it’s needed again.
But that’s not all! If you’re using an ASUS laptop, be sure to check out the MyASUS customization options and enable the “Battery health charging” mode. [1] This nifty feature will keep your battery at a maximum of 80% charge, which is ideal for maintaining its health over the long haul.
Tip 3: Keep Your Cool
Let’s face it, laptops can get hot – like, really hot. And when they do, it’s not just uncomfortable, it can also be downright dangerous for your device. [1] As the ASUS team explains, “When your computer is running, its components get hot. Different laptops handle cooling in different ways.”
That’s why it’s crucial to always keep your laptop on a hard, even surface like a desk or table. Placing it on soft materials like pillows or blankets can actually prevent the necessary heat dissipation, leading to potential damage. [1] And if you really can’t resist the urge to use your laptop in bed or on your lap, be sure to invest in a laptop stand designed for that purpose.
Another important tip? Always turn off your laptop before putting it in your bag. [1] If you leave it running while it’s enclosed, the lack of airflow can cause serious overheating issues. Trust me, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your laptop’s wellbeing.
Tip 4: Protect Your Investment
Now, let’s talk about safeguarding your laptop when you’re on the move. [1] As the ASUS team emphasizes, “It is important to invest in a dedicated carrier for your laptop to help prevent damage.”
Whether you opt for a simple laptop sleeve or a fully-fledged backpack with a padded laptop compartment, the key is to make sure your device is well-protected. [1] I personally swear by a high-quality neoprene sleeve that keeps my laptop snug and secure, no matter where my adventures take me.
And let’s not forget about the importance of storage conditions. [1] Avoid leaving your laptop in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on your device. If you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier in the room where you store your computer to prevent moisture-related damage.
Tip 5: Keep It Up to Date
Last but not least, let’s talk about the importance of staying on top of those updates. [1] As the ASUS team rightly points out, “Outdated apps and systems can run slower and cause compatibility issues, which can expose you to security issues and also hinder your computer’s performance.”
To ensure your laptop is running at its best, make sure to enable automatic updates for both your operating system and your apps. [1] For Windows users, you can easily check for updates by heading to the Settings menu and navigating to the Update & Security section. And for your apps, be sure to enable the “Update apps automatically” setting in the Microsoft Store.
By keeping your laptop’s software and systems up-to-date, you can rest assured that you’re getting the most out of your device and avoiding any pesky security vulnerabilities or performance issues.
So there you have it, my friends – 5 tried-and-true tips to help extend the life of your beloved laptop. From maintaining a spotless workspace to optimizing your battery settings, these strategies are sure to keep your portable powerhouse running like new for years to come. Happy computing!
References:
[1] ASUS. (2022, November 30). How to Take Care of Your New Laptop and Ensure Its Longevity. ASUS. https://www.asus.com/content/how-to-take-care-of-your-new-laptop-and-ensure-its-longevity/
