Introduction
Keeping the inside of your desktop PC clean is important for maintaining performance and extending the life of your components. However, you need to be careful when cleaning the sensitive interior parts of a computer. Follow these best practices to safely clean the inside of your desktop PC.
Gather Supplies
To clean the inside of your desktop PC, you’ll need:
-
Canned air – This allows you to blow dust out of hard-to-reach areas. Avoid holding the can upside down as this can spray out liquid.
-
Microfiber cloth – Use a lint-free cloth designed for cleaning electronics. This lifts dust without scratching.
-
Small paintbrush – For dislodging dust in tight spaces a clean paintbrush can help. Avoid anything metal or static-prone.
-
Isopropyl alcohol – High percentage isopropyl alcohol diluted with distilled water can clean thermal paste or dirt off components.
-
Zip ties or twist ties – Binding cables out of the way helps access dusty areas.
-
Phillips screwdriver – Most desktop PC cases use Phillips screws to open up the sides.
Prepare Workspace
Select a clean, well-lit workspace with room to place screws and sides and lay down components. A large table or open floor area works well. Wear an anti-static wrist strap if possible and avoid working on carpet.
Power Down and Unplug PC
Shut down your desktop PC normally through the operating system before unplugging the power cable. Unplug all power cords from the PC and peripherals. This prevents electric shock and damage while cleaning.
Also remove the CMOS battery from the motherboard to avoid issues. Consult your motherboard manual on battery location.
Remove Side Panels
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove any screws holding on the left and right side panels of the PC case. The panels usually slide back or out once screws are removed. Place panels carefully aside and retain all screws.
Inspect for Problems
Before cleaning, inspect wires and components for any damage or leaks. Look for bulging/leaking capacitors, burnt areas, or broken pins/slots. Cleaning may be pointless if the PC has underlying issues needing repair.
Blow Out Dust
Hold canned air 6-12 inches away from components and use short bursts to blow dust out of the case. Start blowing air over components like the CPU cooler, RAM slots, graphics card, power supply, case fans and drive bays.
Aim to dislodge and move dust so it blows out of the open sides of the case. Go slowly and be thorough over all areas.
Wipe Down Surfaces
For light dust on components and wires, you can use a microfiber cloth. Hold fans still as you wipe over parts.
Use small circular motions to clean contacts like the RAM and PCIe slots. Check the CPU for old thermal paste needing removal with alcohol.
Detail Hard-to-Reach Areas
Use a small paintbrush to gently whisk away dust in tight spaces like between the CPU cooler fins or graphics card slots that are hard to reach.
For stuck-on dust, you can use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol on the bristles but avoid over-wetting components.
Re-cable Manage
With the power supply, drives, GPU and cooler removed, take time to re-run cables neatly. Zip tie cables into bundles to improve airflow and accessibility inside the cleaned case.
Reassemble PC
Once all interior surfaces are dust-free, carefully re-seat components like the GPU, RAM and any drives. Screw the side panels back on securely and plug in power cables.
Double check your work and ensure no tools or dust remain inside before turning your PC back on. Your system should now run cooler and quieter!
Post Cleaning Maintenance
To make your PC cleaning last longer:
- Use compressed air monthly to spot clean dust buildup
- Keep your PC off carpets and clean intake filters regularly
- Reapply thermal paste to the CPU every 2 years if needed
- Always shutdown properly before unplugging the power
Thoroughly cleaning your desktop PC every 6-12 months prevents overheating and extends the life of components. Just be cautious of ESD and gently handle the delicate internals. With some simple tools and patience, you can make your computer run like new again!
