Beginner level · Module 4: Preventive Maintenance · Lesson 1 of 3
Dust, Heat and Cleaning
Keep computers cool and clean.
In this lesson you will
- Clean hardware safely
- Prevent overheating
Key concepts
dust build-upairflowcompressed aircleaning schedule
The lesson
Dust blocks fans and heatsinks, causing heat, noise and shutdowns — a major problem in dusty environments.
Clean with the computer off and unplugged: compressed air or a soft brush, holding fans still; wipe screens with a slightly damp microfibre cloth.
Keep vents clear and computers off the floor, and schedule cleaning every few months, more often in dusty places.
Step by step
- Shut down and unplug.
- Clean vents, fans and heatsinks.
- Clean keyboard and screen.
- Test temperatures afterwards.
Practice activity
Clean the lab desktop and laptop and record temperatures before and after.
Expected result: Clean machines with lower temperatures recorded.
Check your understanding
-
Why hold a fan still while using compressed air?
Show answer
Spinning it too fast can damage it.
-
What problem does dust cause?
Show answer
Overheating, noise and shutdowns.
Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.