Just about everyone is aware of virus and malware protection, but what about potential damage to hardware in your PC that could easily be avoided? At Seras, we see computers everyday that are tucked under desks next to small heaters, full of dust, or not cooling properly.
Even though most PC operating systems have "thermal shutdown" procedures, these are often not calibrated and if they malfunction you could lose everything. As the temperature of the PC rises, without proper cooling from the fan, it can get hot enough to melt core components or even cause a fire. Chron.com provides more details about potential hardware damage here.
How can I prevent overheating?
Clean your PC
Most PCs have several fans, which are the primary source for keeping the PC cool. Dirt, dust, pet hair, and other contaminants are sucked in by the fans and then get clogged and built-up within the PC. The easiest way to clean them is to take the unit outside and remove the case. Then use a compressed air canister to blow them out.
Upgrade the main CPU cooling fan or add a case fan
Stock fans are not nearly as efficient as aftermarket fans, which will get your PC temperature down to below manufacturer specifications. The fans are relatively inexpensive and can be replaced quickly and easily.
Case fans are more external and work in addition to the other fans to help keep air moving through the PC.
Change the location of your PC
The easiest solution is often to move the PC to a location that is lest susceptible to dirt and dust and provides more open air flow for the unit.
Treat or replace power supplies
Power supply modules have their own fans and it is much cheaper to simply replace the entire power supply than to attempt to replace it's fan.
There are several additional options for higher-end PCs that include water-cooling kits, additional component fans, phase change units, and temperature/humidity controlled facilities. A Seras professional will be happy to answer any additional questions related to cooling servers and high-end PCs.
