Keeping It Clean Part 3
Copyright © 2004 Chuck Nelson

We are all diligent in running our anti-virus scans, cleaning up old files and folders and removing old software. But, quite often, the physical cleanliness of the computer itself is forgotten. A dirty computer can make its use difficult and even cause hardware failure. By performing a few regular cleaning tasks, your computer will last longer and be easier to use. This is our final article discussing the best ways to clean your computer equipment and keep it running in top condition.

Scanner

Scanners are fairly easy to keep clean. The only real concern are the surfaces where your document or picture is placed for scanning. The glass surface can be cleaned with any popular glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Using paper products can cause small scratches on the glass and these can easily be picked up by the scanner. The underside of the scanner lid should also be cleaned regularly. Any foreign matter can be interpreted by the scanner and show up in your scanned image. This surface can be cleaned with warm water and a soft cloth. Both surfaces should be cleaned every two to three months.

 

Printers

Printers require special cleaning procedures depending on the type of printer. Although general cleaning procedures are listed here, please consult any documentation received when you purchased your printer.

InkJet
The main area of an inkjet printer which requires cleaning is the ink cartridge holder or print head. If your printer required the installation of software for maintaining it, quite often a function is available to “clean the print heads.” When performing this task, a sheet will be printed which usually contains various bars or lines. Once printed, make sure each image on the page is complete. Additional cleaning usually only needs to be done if the printer does not get much usage or has set idle for long periods.

Remove each ink cartridge as per manufacturer instructions. Check the face of the cartridge for ink buildup or drops. If none exists return the cartridge to the proper location. If there appears to be small ink buildup on the face it can be removed by putting a small about of alcohol on a cloth or paper towel and blot the cartridge face. Do not rub the towel on the cartridge. This will cause the ink to flow possibly making the area worse. You will be unable to remove all the ink visible. Once complete, return the cartridge to its proper location.
If any ink has leaked to the inside of the printer, it can be cleaned with rubbing alcohol and a cloth or paper towel. Again, try to blot the area. It is easy to merely smear the ink inside the printer.

The ink inside the cartridges can dry out if not used. If your printer does not seem to be printing correctly and you have already followed all cleaning procedures, it will be likely a replacement cartridge is needed. If the problem persists, contact your computer technician.



Laser
Laser printers usually do not require cleaning. With most manufacturers, printers require replacing certain parts to keep them running smoothly. Please consult with the documentation which came with your printer, or consult the manufacture directly.
 

With proper care and a regular cleaning regimen, your computer and peripherals can continue to function without any major repair work or replacement. As with most other major purchases, it is cheaper to keep it clean than to fix or replace it.