As technology gets better, the prices of desktop computers and laptops keep dropping and more people have access to these devices. However, they’re not cheap and still need some tender loving care to function for many years.
If you think you can just buy a computer, unbox it, and start using it without giving it another thought, think again. There are steps you should take to make sure your computer is working properly and won’t break when you need it the most.
Clean It Frequently
Like any other product, if computers and laptops are not properly (and regularly) cleaned, they start to malfunction. Dust and dirt slowly build up which can contribute to overheating, sticky keyboards, and non-responsive mice.
The last thing you want is to lose your PC because it was filthy. Ideally, you should be cleaning it at least once a year, but to guarantee peak performance, consider cleaning the interior every four to six months.
Pay Attention to Ventilation and Room Temperature
Have you ever wondered why internet cafes are always super cold? Computers are prone to overheating and need plenty of ventilation and a healthy room temperature to function properly.
One way to solve this problem is to install air conditioning to control the temperature and humidity in your office space. Ductless mini split systems can be easily installed in nearly any type of home and may be a realistic option if a comfortable work space is all that’s needed to keep you and your PC at peak performance.
Beware of Power Surges
It would be great if the power supply was always stable, but it isn’t. Every now and then there are power fluctuations with huge spikes and if not dealt with correctly, they can damage your computer.
Surge protectors contain these surges and keep sensitive components safe. Surge protectors can stop working, though, after a large power surge so you need to check constantly to see if they’re functioning normally.
Use Anti-Virus Software
It’s not only the hardware you should be worrying about. What goes on inside your computer is equally important. Hackers are becoming more crafty and you need to shield your computer from them.
Apart from having an anti-virus software installed on your PC, you should ensure software is automatically updated to keep potential intrusions at a minimum.
Take Care of Your Battery
Laptop users should avoid leaving their devices plugged in at all times, as it can stress the battery and slowly decrease its lifespan. Like computers, laptops shouldn’t be left to overheat or it might eventually break the battery.
If you want to keep your battery healthy, adjust your laptop to an eco mode so the screen brightness is set to a minimum and it doesn’t take long to go into sleep mode.
Computers and laptops are getting cheaper, but you should still consider a few simple steps to protect your investment. If you take care of your device and follow these tips to keep it functional, it’ll last for years and save you money in the long-term.
