Moisture
Humidity is a condition in which the air contains a lot of moisture, which can cause condensation or dew on the surface of objects. Moisture can damage the motherboard, as it can cause corrosion, rust, or short circuit of metal or electronic components on the motherboard.
Humidity can be caused by several factors, such as:
- Low ambient temperature. If you use your computer in a cold place, such as in an air-conditioned room, underground, or in winter, then the temperature inside the computer case can be lower than the ambient temperature. This can cause moisture in the air to condense on the surface of the motherboard, which can cause damage.
- Large temperature difference. If you move your computer from a cold place to a warm place, or vice versa, then the temperature inside the computer case can change drastically. This can cause moisture in the air to condense or evaporate on the surface of the motherboard, which can cause damage.
- Fluid leakage. If you have a liquid cooling system on your computer, or you accidentally spill a drink or other liquid on your computer, then the liquid can get into the computer case, and touch the motherboard. This can cause short circuits, corrosion, or rust of motherboard components.
Solution:
To prevent damage to the motherboard due to moisture, you can do the following:
- Use your computer in a dry, well-ventilated place. Avoid using your computer in damp places, such as in the bathroom, in the kitchen, or near a window. If necessary, use a dehumidifier, room dryer, or silica gel to lower the humidity of the air.
- Let your computer adapt to the ambient temperature before turning it on. If you move your computer from a cold place to a warm place, or vice versa, let your computer rest for a few minutes, so that the temperature inside the computer case can adjust to the ambient temperature. This can prevent condensation or dew on the surface of the motherboard.
- Check and repair your liquid cooling system periodically. Make sure there are no leaks, cracks, or damage to hoses, pumps, or reservoirs from your liquid cooling system. If there is, immediately replace or repair the problematic part, and dry your motherboard carefully.
- Avoid spilling liquid on your computer. If you accidentally spill a drink or other liquid on your computer, shut down your computer immediately, unplug the power cord, and open the computer case. Dry your motherboard carefully, and check for damaged or shorted components. If there are, replace or repair the component, or take your computer to a service center.
Dust
Dust is small particles consisting of various materials, such as skin, hair, pollen, fiber, soil, and others. Dust can damage the motherboard, as it can clog airflow, reduce cooling effectiveness, and cause short circuits in electronic components.
Dust can get inside the computer case through cracks, holes, or fans. Dust can also stick to the surface of the motherboard due to the presence of static electricity. Dust can build up over time, especially if you rarely clean your computer, or use your computer in dusty places, such as in a warehouse, in a garage, or near a highway.
Solution:
To prevent damage to the motherboard due to dust, you can do the following:
- Clean your computer periodically. At least once every three months, open your computer case and remove any dust that gets on the motherboard, fans, heatsinks, and other components. You can use a brush, cloth, or a soft vacuum cleaner to clean the dust. Make sure you turn off and unplug your computer before cleaning it, and don’t touch components with wet hands or metal objects.
- Use a dust filter on your computer case. You can install dust filters in holes or crevices in your computer case, which can prevent dust from entering your computer. You can buy a ready-made dust filter, or make it yourself from cloth, sponge, or paper. Make sure you clean or replace the dust filter periodically, so as not to block the airflow.
- Use your computer in a clean, well-ventilated place. Avoid using your computer in dusty places, such as in warehouses, garages, or near highways. Use a lid, box, or cabinet to protect your computer from dust. Also, make sure there is good air circulation around your computer so that heat can be removed effectively.