Was your computer ready for the heat wave?

While your computer doesn’t require an air conditioned room, proper air movement is important. If your computer doesn’t have proper air flow, it will over heat.

Do you know to recognize a computer that is too hot? If the computer is much warmer than the surrounding area, it is probably too hot. Do you stack books around your computer? Most computers force air in the front and out the back of the computer. Keep the back and front of the computer clear to allow air to carry heat away from the computer. Check the sides of the computer for additional ventilation. A small fan to direct airflow at the computer might be in order when it is exceptionally warm.

All electrical devices and computers generate heat as a waste product. Newer computers are more efficient and generate less heat but you still need to be aware that excessive heat generation will cause your computer to fail.

Dust build up in your computer will act as an insulator and keep in the heat. Clogged vents will not allow the fans to pass air efficiently. Use your vacuum to pick up any dust kitties before they clog up the computer vents.

If you are really daring, you may consider using your vacuum to pick up any dust accumulated in your computer. Turn off the computer and disconnect the power cord before you open the computer case to vacuum the computer. If you have a vacuum with an exhaust port, use it to blow the dust out of the computer. Blowing the dust out usually gets the dust out but it makes a mess outside of the computer.

Here’s a tip. If you don’t have a vacuum with an exhaust port, purchase an air mattress inflator. Use it like canned air. It’s a green solution. Canned air is one of the most wasteful, money making schemes for computer types.

You may also consider your computing habits. There are a lot of different theories about keeping the computer running or turning it off. If you plan on using your computer frequently during the day, keep it on. If you aren’t planning any computer activity, turn it off. There are power settings in the Control Panel that will turn the computer off after a period of non-use. Check out how to set the power settings to satisfy your computer activities.

Power surges and brown outs caused by storms or excessive weather can ruin your computer. A desktop is more susceptible to power problems because laptop power supplies isolate the laptop from house electrical problems.  Spend a little money on a quality surge protector.

Don’t forget to keep your computer cool on those hot summer days.

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