Whether you use your laptop for work, for fun, or both, there’s nothing more frustrating than having it break down on you.
In a perfect world, your laptop would last you several years without any issues (the average lifespan is five years or more). But, if you’re not taking proper care to maintain it, you’ll likely end up experiencing the dreaded crash sooner than you’d like.
Laptop maintenance might seem difficult, there are lots of steps that anyone can take to keep their laptop in good working order. Read on to learn about seven important maintenance tips that you can start implementing today.
Why Does Laptop Maintenance Matter?
The more work you put into maintaining your laptop, the longer it’ll last. But, that’s not the only benefit that comes from prioritizing laptop maintenance.
Some other reasons to stay on top of your laptop maintenance include:
- Save money on repairs and replacements
- Maintain a sense of security and protect your laptop from viruses and malware
- Keep your laptop speed as fast as possible
- Maximize software efficiency
When you maintain it properly, you’ll not only ensure that your laptop runs for a long time. You’ll also be able to keep it running efficiently, and you’ll be able to feel confident in its ability to get projects done without any complications.
Seven Steps to Maintaining Your Laptop
Okay, you can see that laptop maintenance is important. But, what steps should you take to actually maintain your laptop?
The following steps are essential for all laptop owners who want to keep their device in good shape:
1. Clean Your Hard Drive
One of the most important steps you can take to maintain your laptop is to make sure you’re cleaning your hard drive once a month. This is especially important if you’re using your laptop for work.
You’d be amazed at how many files and photos can get saved on your hard drive in just a month’s time.
Take some time each month to go through these files and figure out which ones to delete and which ones to back up on an external drive. This will help prevent hard drive failure and keep your laptop running as efficiently as possible.
2. Defrag Your Hard Drive
Defragging your hard drive is another important step that will keep your laptop running efficiently. Defragging involves rearranging fragmented data on your device so that it’s easier to read.
You should defrag your hard drive once per month to help programs run quickly and make better use of space on your hard drive.
By doing this, you’ll experience fewer freeze ups and software crashes, too.
There are lots of software options that will defrag your hard drive for you. If you have a solid-state drive (also known as SSD), then you don’t need to worry about defragging.
3. Keep Your Laptop Body Clean
In addition to keeping things clean on the inside, it’s also important to keep the outside of your laptop clean.
This helps prevent overheating and will keep dust from building up inside the fans and exposed ports.
You should also keep your screen clean so that you can view data clearly without straining your eyes.
Use a can of compressed air to get rid of stubborn dirt, and clean the exterior and screen with a microfiber cloth. Only use cleaning products that are designed specifically for laptops.
4. Perform a Full Back-Up Regularly
Once a month, perform a full back-up on your laptop to prevent data loss. The best backup system will vary depending on the type of laptop you have.
If you’re not sure where to turn when it comes to backing up your laptop, you can always talk to a professional at a repair shop. They’ll help you choose the best option for your needs.
5. Keep Your Software Updated
Are you guilty of ignoring software updates when they pop up on your screen? You’re not the only one. But, ignoring these updates can put your computer at risk.
Not only will your computer run less efficiently when you neglect your software updates, but you’ll also put it at risk for viruses and make it more vulnerable to hackers.
Ideally, you’d perform updates as soon as they become available. But, if this is irritating for you, set aside time once a month to install all your new updates at once.
6. Avoid Extreme Temperatures
A lot of laptop issues can be avoided if you make a concentrated effort to avoid extreme temperatures while using it. High heat or very low temperatures can hinder its ability to run efficiently.
When you’re coming in from a cold day outside, give it time to reach room temperature before turning it on. Do the same when you’re coming in from a very hot day so that it has a chance to cool down.
Be sure to avoid setting your laptop on pillows, blankets, or other non-flat surfaces, too. This will help prevent overheating.
7. Transport it with Care
Finally, make sure you’re transporting your laptop properly. Use a high-quality laptop case that provides cushion and protection from other items in your bag. Don’t store anything on top of your laptop, either.
Remember, too, that just because your laptop is a portable device, that doesn’t mean it needs to go everywhere with you.
Carrying your laptop with you into the bathtub or onto a sandy beach is a recipe for disaster.
Only use your laptop in clean spaces where it’s not at risk of damage. No matter how important your project is, it can wait until your laptop is out of harm’s way!
Need Help With Laptop Maintenance?
Many of these laptop maintenance tips can be completed on your own at home. But, sometimes, you also need help from a professional, especially when it comes to repairs or part replacements.
If you need some help maintaining your laptop and live in the northern Kentucky area, contact us at Community Computer Services today.
We offer a wide range of maintenance and repair services to extend your laptop’s lifespan and keep it functioning properly.
