Ten tips to get the most out of your new computer.
A few small things make a big difference. These come from the same team that built and checked your machine.
Restart it regularly
Many people simply close the lid at the end of the day. A full restart once a week helps keep your laptop running smoothly and clears temporary issues before they become problems.
Don't leave it plugged in 24/7
Modern batteries are smart, but constantly keeping your laptop on charge isn't ideal. If possible, let the battery discharge occasionally before charging it again.
Keep it cool
Heat is one of the biggest enemies of electronics. Avoid placing your laptop on soft surfaces such as beds, sofas, or cushions where air vents can become blocked.
Use the right way to carry it
Always carry your laptop in a padded bag or case. Even small knocks can damage screens, hinges, and internal components.
Keep food and drinks away
A coffee spill can be far more expensive than a dropped laptop. Try to keep drinks on a separate surface whenever possible.
Look after the battery
If you're mostly desk-based, aim to use battery power occasionally rather than leaving the device permanently connected to mains power.
Clean the screen properly
Use a soft microfibre cloth. Avoid household cleaning sprays, kitchen roll, or abrasive materials that can scratch the display.
Shut it down before travelling
When putting your laptop into a bag for a journey, shut it down or allow it to fully sleep first. A laptop that wakes up inside a bag can overheat surprisingly quickly.
Don't force the screen or hinges
Open and close the lid gently and avoid lifting the laptop by the screen. This helps prevent hinge damage, which is one of the most common hardware failures.
Ask for help early
If something doesn't seem right, such as unusual noises, overheating, slow performance, or physical damage, report it straight away. Small issues are often much easier to resolve before they become major problems.
- Lock your screen whenever you leave your desk
- Keep liquids away from your laptop
- Don't block the vents
- Restart weekly
- Travel with a protective case
Treat your laptop like you would your mobile phone; keep it clean, protected, and charged sensibly. A few simple habits can significantly extend its lifespan and help you get the best performance from it.
Restart your PC regularly
Leaving your computer running for weeks at a time can cause applications to slow down and temporary issues to build up. A quick restart once a week helps keep everything running smoothly.
Keep vents clear
Your PC needs airflow to stay cool. Avoid pushing the tower right up against walls, cupboards, or under piles of paperwork where vents can become blocked.
Keep it dust-free
Dust is the enemy of electronics. Every few months, gently wipe the outside of your PC and monitor and ensure air vents aren't clogged with dust.
Don't eat or drink over your keyboard
Spilt drinks and crumbs are among the most common causes of keyboard and device failures. A little distance goes a long way.
Shut down properly
Avoid switching off power at the wall or unplugging your PC without shutting Windows down first. This can cause data corruption and other issues.
Protect cables from damage
Try not to trap, stretch or roll over cables with office chairs. Damaged power or monitor cables can cause intermittent faults that are difficult to diagnose.
Keep magnets and liquids away
Strong magnets, water bottles, coffee cups and plants can all present risks to your equipment. Give your PC a little breathing space.
Lock your screen when away
Whenever you leave your desk, press Windows + L to lock your computer. It's a quick habit that helps keep your information secure.
Report problems early
If your PC becomes unusually slow, starts making odd noises, overheats, or displays error messages, let us know. Small issues are usually much easier to resolve before they become major problems.
Don't use your PC as extra storage
Avoid stacking paperwork, bags, coats, or other items on top of your desktop computer. It can block airflow and increase operating temperatures.
- Restart weekly
- Keep vents clear
- Keep food and drinks away
- Lock your screen when you leave your desk
- Keep cables tidy and protected
- Report issues early
Your desktop PC is designed to provide years of reliable service. Keeping it clean, well-ventilated and free from damage will help maintain performance and reduce the risk of unexpected downtime.
Something not quite right?
If anything needs changing, give us a call and we'll get it sorted for you straight away.
