Shut down and unplug
Turn off the PC, switch the power supply off and unplug the power cable. Let the system cool before opening the case.
CRC CARE GUIDE
PC Tips & Maintenance
Simple, practical advice to help keep your PC clean, cool and running at its best. These are the same basic habits CRC recommends for regular care.
CRC PRACTICAL GUIDE
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Open the case and inspect
Remove the side panel and check where dust has built up. Do not remove components unless a deeper clean is needed.
Blow away loose dust
Use your battery-powered air blower in short bursts and direct dust out of the case.
Hold fans still
Gently hold fan blades in place. Do not let fans spin freely from the airflow.
Clean filters and airflow areas
Remove dust filters and clean them separately. Clean vents, radiators and heatsinks, and let washed filters dry completely.
Clean components carefully
Use a clean lint-free cloth with a small amount of 98% isopropyl alcohol on suitable surfaces. Never spray liquid directly onto components.
Reassemble and check
Make sure everything is dry, reinstall filters and panels, and check cables and connections.
Power on and monitor
Check temperatures and fan behaviour after cleaning. Investigate sudden temperature increases.
Regular dusting
Use a battery-powered air blower to remove loose dust from fans, heatsinks, radiators, vents and filters. Short bursts work best.
Hold fan blades still
Do not let fans spin freely while cleaning. Hold the blades in place gently before using the air blower.
Clean dust filters
Remove and clean dust filters regularly. A quick clean every 2–4 weeks helps maintain good airflow.
Deeper cleaning
Every 6–12 months, remove larger dust build-up and carefully clean accessible heatsinks, radiators and surfaces. Reassemble and double-check connections.
98% isopropyl alcohol
For suitable component surfaces, use a small amount of 98% IPA on a clean, lint-free cloth. Never spray or pour liquid directly onto components, and allow everything to dry fully before powering on.
Good long-term habits
Keep the PC off the floor where possible, give it space to breathe, avoid direct sunlight and excessive humidity, and check temperatures or fan noise if performance changes.
Safety first: Turn off the PC, switch off the power supply and unplug the power cable before cleaning. Never open the PSU—even when unplugged, it can retain a dangerous electrical charge.
Need help with cleaning or maintenance?
CRC can help with PC cleaning, maintenance and service.