One of the most overlooked routine maintenance tasks associated with using a computer involves a good physical cleaning inside the CPU. As your computer runs, a small fan (or fans) circulates fresh air inside the
computer box (or tower) to keep the electronics, harddrive, and other parts cool. Heat can kill a computer and, if the fan ever failed completely, your computer would most likely overheat quickly. The small internal fan relies on a steady supply of fresh air coming thru several small air ducts on the outside of the computer cabinet. These small opening often become clogged with dust, pet hair, carpet fibers, and other materials that reduce the cooling efficiency.

To make sure your computer is keeping cool, unplug the power cord from the wall and follow the manufacturers directions to open and remove the cover of the computer (often a thumb-screw or two on the back of the tower). Once the internal parts are exposed, use a small vacuum (preferably with a plastic rather than metal nozzle wand) to gently remove any dust or lint that has collected around the fan unit and air intake ducts (computer shops also sell compressed air canisters that can be used to blast away dust). After you've removed all visible materials, replace the computer cover and restart your computer. Your computer will thank you by running as designed for years to come. This process should be done at least once a year, more often in dusty environments.