Your computer's power supply is one of the most important components on your machine. The power supply is responsible in converting the regular household current into the voltage suitable for your computer's use. Malfunctioning or damaged power supply can result in more costly damages to your computer's circuitry. So you need to keep your power supply clean for preventing problems. Computer components attract dust, dirt, lint, carpet fibers, pet hair, and smoke particles. However, a lot of people don't even make an effort to check their power supply boxes aft. If your computer makes a grinding noise as it powers up or shuts down, it can serve as a good indicator that you're well overdue for power supply maintenance.
Instructions
1. First of all, shut down and unplug your computer. Some CPU casings have a master switch for power at the back. Turn this off. Never clean the inside of your PC while it is running or plugged in; this can result in accidental electric shock or other such injuries. Let the computer cool to room temperature (at least 15 minutes) before cleaning the inside of the case. This action will help you avoid burning yourself. It is also a good idea to wear an anti-static wrist strip to reduce transferring static electricity from your body to the computer.2. Ground yourself to your computer with a grounding tool. If not, you run the risk of burning your computer circuitry with static electricity. Unscrew and remove your computer's access panel. Make sure that you jot down where the wires go, so that you can put these back afterwards.
3. Find the power supply by looking for the place that your computer's power cable goes into. The power supply is also recognizable because of the large fan it contains. Open it with a screwdriver. Wear a dust mask if the power supply unit is dusty.
4. Use a can of compressed air or a vacuum cleaner with a nozzle to blow dust and dirt off the power supply. Hold the nozzle about 2 inches from the surface you're cleaning and always blow from the inside of the PC outward. When spraying compressed air, hold the can as upright as possible to avoid expelling moisture. Some cans contain other chemicals that can help dissolve grime. If not held upright, they can release a flammable liquid which can also cause frostbite and burn your skin. Short, quick blasts should be sprayed in the direction of the area to be cleaned. Be sure to thoroughly clean the fan, the circuitry and the wiring.
5. Make sure that you have cleaned all parts of the box before assembling it back. Place the access panel back on your computer and screw it back in.
After completion of the cleaning you can reassemble the power unit and install it back in the computer, but do not forget to connect all of its connectors to the corresponding devices. After you have done the cleaning, check if the computer is working properly. If your computer hangs or freezes, this might be a sign that your PSU is still dirty.
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