[PCWorld]

Post your comments for Fix a Noisy, Overheated Laptop here

[AlanMGross]

Is there anything wrong with using a vacuum cleaner to suck the dust out? Now that I think about it, my vacuum cleaner has a way to connect a hose to blow air. But still, sucking up the dust seems more efficient, and perhaps gentler. Thoughts?

[dhornof]

I can't believe you actually said to use an air compressor. When air compressors run they create moisture. I don't think any of your readers would want moisture in their system.

[jboustani]

Good advice. However I would not use an air compressor. Standard air compressors can build up moisture in the air tank.

[pshane45]

I agree with Alan Gross, as I know that a blast of compressed air could do some real harm to a delicate fan, and possibly force the dust and dirt further into the Laptops innards, where it could build up and cause MORE problems.- The moisture would'nt bother me as much due to the minor amount of time the blasts would last.
A vacuum with a soft brush attachment may be the way to go on this.

[tek101]

Geezzzz...Don't you all see the picture ......? He has already removed the case ...and let the fan exposed before he blast it .......

To me Its the BEST way to get most........if not all dust out ...."In the open air....though" .........

[mjd420nova]

One of the biggest things about cleaning out any electronic device is the tools you use. NEVER use a vacuum with a metel tip unless its grounded. Plastic tip tools are best but to be sure to eliminate any static that might build up, I wrap the tip with foil and ground it. I also use a small two inch wide paint brush with the bristles cut to around one inch long. This helps dislodge any dust and keeping the vacuum nozzle close prevents the dust and dirt from getting spread around. Noisy fans are usually from the dust buildup. If possible, unmount the fan and clean both front and back of the blades and be sure the leading edges of the blade have no nicks or gouges. The brush will also help to get the dust out of the fins on the heat sink. Canned air is okay but one must be certain to keep the can upright. Tipping the can would allow the propelant to escape and that will freeze the components and allow for moisture to condense. NEVER use an air compressor, they contain too much moisture and will actually put a static charge on the air itself. Vents also need to be cleaned and any obstructions removed.

[kahm007]

While there is nothing wrong with vacuuming I would strongly advise you not to use your household vacuum. Make sure you use a vacuum designed for computers. The reason being is I have seen vacuums generate a static charge in their hoses and their is a chance for ESD damage. Using the exaust shouldn't be a problem though.

I use a compressor to clean mine out. Small compressors work best as they don't store air long enough to condensate. Larger ones will more likely need an oil system to filter out line water. But that is out of the scope of this reply.

[kahm007]

@ [~5183]



That is an excellent note. I was not aware that the air was charged by a compressor? Can you site the source on that? i will also google. Thank you.

[MichaelPfeiffer]

So the best solution seems to hook the vacuum hose up to the other end (if possible) and let it blow air into the laptop. I might try that.