Whether you work from home or use your computer daily to catch up with friends and family, book vacations, shop online, or other tasks, this tech tool is likely one of the most valued in your home. Our computers help us in so many ways, and it’s often not until they break that we realize just how much we depend on them.
As such, to ensure you get the maximum usage out of your device, and don’t have to spend money or energy replacing it before its time, it’s vital to take steps to help your machine last longer. There are a few things you can do to extend the life of your computer now and into the future.
Buy the Best Product You Can Afford
Give yourself the best chance of having a device that lasts well by buying the right product upfront. Whether you choose a desktop or laptop, it’s helpful to invest as much as you can afford so you get a model with the best possible processor. This CPU can’t really get upgraded later, so opt for a good design now, and you should lengthen the digital lifespan you get to enjoy.
Choose as large a hard drive as you can. The larger this is, the more time it will take to fill up. When a hard drive is full, it slows down a computer and is more likely to freeze, crash, and have other difficulties that lead to you needing an upgrade. If you buy well at the start, though, you should get more time out of your device.
Clean Your Computer Up on the Inside
One of the most important jobs you can do to help keep your device running optimally is “clean” it on the inside. This only requires some basic maintenance, so you don’t need to be an IT expert. For example, conduct defragmenting on your machine regularly, every couple of months or so, to clean out temporary files, if this isn’t something that happens automatically on your operating system.
Also, clean up your computer desktop to get rid of clutter. Delete files you don’t need anymore and empty the Recycle Bin at least monthly. There are lots of great software tools you can use to do all this internal cleaning, too, such as the popular Cleaner One Pro for Windows product.
It’s also wise to install quality security software on your computer. When you use such protection and prevent hackers from breaking into your machine and networks, you help ensure that you continue to have a smoothly functioning device uncorrupted by malware or viruses.
Keep the Machine Clean Externally
Don’t forget to pay attention to the cleanliness of the outside of your computer, too. It’s necessary to keep the device free of dust, dirt, pet hair, and other matter as much as possible if you want to get the most life out of it. Debris can block up gears, get into inner components, and cause functioning issues. It can also clog the fans and make the computer work much harder than it should, which means it will probably eventually overheat.
Avoid these issues by wiping down surfaces regularly with a microfiber or other scratch-free cloth to remove dust and the like, and clean your computer’s screen with a specific screen cleaner. Don’t use window cleaner or other products not designed for these machines, as they can let too much moisture get inside the device and dull the screen.
It pays to vacuum the keyboard to suck up matter stuck between keys. You can also occasionally blow out the ventilation areas on the computer with an air compressor, if you have one, to clear our dust. Also, avoid placing drinks and food near your device, so you reduce the risk of spills.
Use Your Computer Gently
If you’re gentle with your computer, this will help it to have a longer life. Try not to jostle or otherwise move the device while it’s running. When you do carry it, avoid dropping it (especially on a hard surface) or banging it against doorways, countertops, etc. Hold laptops at the base, not by the screen, and when traveling, protect your gadget with a padded case, so it doesn’t get hurt in transit. Plus, switch your computer off when you’re transporting it.
Use a Surge Protector
Using a surge protector will also help you extend the life of your machine. When you plug your device into this product, it stops the hard drive and/or components from getting fried during an electrical surge.
As you can see from the above tips, it doesn’t take too much time or effort to maintain and protect your computer over the years and help it to run optimally. Following a few simple steps can make a world of difference.
