My preference for avoiding this is the vacuum set to low minimum every three months. Always disconnect power before doing it. If certain parts like the CPU fan still looks bad, I will actually take it off and gently use a cloth or Q-Tip to clean. I stopped using canned air when I realized all it did was blow the dust/dirt outside the computer to land somewhere else and I would have to vacuum it anyway!
Plus if the air is used too much, the can starts getting cold so it has to sit a while before going back to normal temp.
I second that. Always use the vac. I don't go as far as to remove any components from the mobo, but get at the CPU fan and HS using the crevasse cleaner attachment.
Always have the computer connected to a ground while doing this. While you do not want to have power applied to the mobo, you still want the ground connection, so that any static that is created by the air flow will be dissipated.
I use the hard switch on the PSU to shut off power to the mobo, but leave the mains power plug connected.
If you are removing components, always have yourself, as well as the chassis grounded. I use a wrist strap connected to the ground pin of a nearby receptacle, or directly to the chassis.
Also, be sure to place any removed components into ESD safe bags.
In cold weather, you have to be careful about ESD. Some carpeting and clothing will generate lots of it.
Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics, like nylon or poly while working on the system. Cotton is the best, as it will not normally generate static electricity.
Would be nice to have HEPA filter in front of air intake, but then you need more powerful fans to pull the air in through the filter.
FW
. She said she needed a new power supply, so I ordered it for her & said I'd put it in for her. Her brother brought it in and I about fainted! I called her & said I'd be glad to put the power supply in, but she'd have to get the computer & clean it first...:'(
