How do I maintain my BLD PC?
A little preventative maintenance can go a long way to keeping your BLD gaming PC in great shape. Most PC builders try to clean their PCs a couple of times a year. We suggest that you follow the same 6-month schedule for routine cleaning of your PC. If you have pets or a lot of dust in your home, you might want to increase the frequency.
We recommend the following supplies:
- 2 soft, lint-free cloths
- Non-abrasive, non-ammonia-based, anti-static glass/monitor cleaning fluid
- "Canned Air" or an air compressor (You can also use a vacuum cleaner with a hose and soft brush attachment, in place of the compressed air)
Cleaning your PC should only take 10-15 minutes.
Removable Dust Filters
To help maintain airflow, you should clean the removable dust filters on your PC. Each case has filters in different locations, so you should refer to the manual for your case to find the filters. Generally, filters are located in the front and on the bottom of the case. You need to remove the filters to clean them.
You can use several different methods for cleaning your dust filters.
Many people take the filters out and use clean, running water to rinse the dust from the filter. You can also use a damp cloth (not a paper towel) to gently wipe the dust-free. Once clean, you can dry the screen with a towel or let it air dry.
Some people use the soft brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner to remove the dust build-up.
Others use "canned air" (usually used for cleaning camera lenses) or other compressed air sources to blow the dust from the filter. Do this outside!
Finally, you can just shake the filter to remove the dust. This isn't the most effective way, as some trace dust will be left, but it's better than nothing.
Regardless of the cleaning method you choose, handle the dust filters carefully. It is possible to tear the screen material, making it less effective at keeping your PC clean.
Cases Windows
Acrylic Windows
The windows in most of the cases are made from a special type of acrylic plastic. The materials harder to crack/break and has good UV resistance, but can be more susceptible to scratching. To avoid scratching while cleaning acrylic windows, always use a soft, lint-free fabric cloth and an anti-static monitor cleaning solution or acrylic cleaning paste (follow the directions on the packaging).
Note: Avoid using ammonia-based windows cleaners as these have chemicals that can cause "rainbow" effects on the acrylic material.
Tempered Glass Windows
To clean tempered glass, use a mild, non-abrasive glass cleaner. Spray a little on a lint-free cloth and gently rub the glass clean. Use another clean, lint-free cloth to buff the tempered glass surface dry. You can also use a solution of lukewarm water and mild dish soap to clean the glass. Remember to rinse the soapy residue off the glass if you use dish soap.
Fan Blades
Cleaning your fans is a little harder since they aren't easily removed. We suggest you move your PC outside or into the garage and use compressed air, either from "canned air" or an air compressor. It is also possible to use a vacuum cleaner hose and soft brush attachment to clean the fan blades.
Vent holes
Your PC has a lot of other vents for air to flow through. You should try to keep these areas clean as dust and other debris can reduce airflow. Use compressed air or even just a manual duster (like a Swiffer or feather duster).
Other Locations
There are also other places in your PC where dust can settle, specifically on your Motherboard, GPU, and CPU. We recommend that you move your PC outside or into your garage and blow these areas clean with compressed air.
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