A computer is a powerful tool that needs to be treated with care. Whether you are using it for work or school, your computer can be subject to damage from everyday use and even environmental factors.
From crumbs in the keyboard to smoke damage to the fan, there are many things that can shorten your PC’s lifespan.
AnyTechSD offers comprehensive IT support consulting services at https://www.anytechsd.com, ensuring efficient technology solutions for businesses, enhancing productivity, and minimizing disruptions.
1. Leaving your computer unattended
Leaving your laptop unattended is a mistake that can leave it open to hackers or crooks who want to see what you’re working on. It also creates an opportunity for you to accidentally step away from it and hit the keyboard or trackpad damaging your device and possibly your data.
It’s best to leave your computer on a hard surface when you’re not using it. This helps protect it from physical damage, such as a cracked screen or broken hinges.
It’s also important to lock your device when you’re going to be away from it for a long period of time, such as a lunch break. Locking your computer will keep everything running and only requires you to enter a password when you return.
2. Computer unplugged
Taking good care of your computer helps prolong its lifespan. Simple things like avoiding drinks near your laptop, ensuring that cables don’t get bent and forcefully plugged in (I once saw someone put a USB into a FireWire port which broke both), and not using the proper cleaner to clean a screen are a few of the common mistakes that people make, and which can lead to avoidable hardware damage.
Even when you’re done with it, never leave a laptop unplugged. This allows for a buildup of heat, which can damage components. Manufacturers pack laptops in air-tight bags when they ship them, so it’s up to you to protect your device.
3. Leaving your computer in a hot environment
While some heat is normal during operation, if your Mac or PC gets too hot, it can damage internal components. A number of things can cause overheating, from misbehaving programs pushing the CPU too hard to blocked vents to dust buildup in the nooks and crannies.
Laptops are prone to physical damage as well, and carrying them around in a backpack can put stress on the hinges. It’s also easy to accidentally yank the computer by its keyboard, which can loosen or break the plastic case.
Keeping your laptop in a protective sleeve when you carry it can help minimize this risk. The sleeve will cushion it against the hard bottom of your backpack and help keep its edges from being damaged by other items in your bag.
4. Cold environment
Leaving your laptop in a cold environment can damage your computer. For example, the LCD screen can freeze if exposed to cold temperatures for extended periods of time. Additionally, the battery’s electric currents slow down when exposed to cold temperatures, leading to a faster discharge rate and a poorer performance.
Additionally, the lightweight plastics used in the construction of laptops can become brittle when exposed to frigid environments for long periods of time. It’s also important to not grab a laptop by its LCD display (LCD) or its hinges, as doing so may cause damage. Lastly, if you’re transferring your laptop from a cold environment to a warm one, give it a quarter of an hour to acclimate before powering it on.
5. Computer in a wet environment
A moment of clumsiness or distraction can lead to water damage. Depending on the type of liquid and where it was spilled, a computer could be irreparably damaged.
Water conducts electricity, which could cause a short circuit and destroy your hardware. Turning off your computer as soon as possible limits the amount of electrical damage that can occur.
When a laptop gets wet, the first thing you need to do is shut it down and remove the battery. Next, place it upside down to discourage moisture from getting into deeper parts of the device. Finally, immerse it in a container of dry rice for at least 48 hours.
Get expert PC/Mac repair services at anytechsd. Our technicians provide reliable solutions for all your residential computing needs. see more for details.
6. A dry environment
If you’re like most laptop users, you’ve probably spilled your share of beverages on your computer. Water isn’t usually the culprit, but sugary or alcoholic drinks can do serious damage to internal components.
After you’ve wiped off any pools of liquid, place the computer on a towel or absorbent cloth and leave it in a dry environment for at least two days. It’s important to do this because even a small amount of static electricity can damage your computer components.
Rubbing your feet on carpet generates thousands of volts of static electricity. Even a short burst can fry your motherboard or other electronic components.
Published by the SEO-focused editorial team at JetRank. For any questions or if you’d like to make suggestions, our SEO team at JetRank is awaiting your contact.
