Keep your PC Healthy. Your guide to a healthy and longer lasting PC.

April 18, 2025

Here are some helpful PC maintenance tips to ensure optimal performance and longevity:

Keep Your PC Clean:

• Regularly clean dust from vents, fans, and other components using compressed air.

• Ensure your workspace is free from excess dust to minimize buildup.

Update Software and Drivers:

• Frequently update your operating system, programs, and drivers to benefit from the latest security patches and improvements.

Check for Malware:

• Use reputable antivirus software to scan for malware or viruses.

• Regularly monitor and remove any suspicious files or programs.

Organize Storage:

• Delete unused files and programs to free up space and improve speed.

• Periodically defragment your hard drive (if not using SSD) for better performance.

Monitor Hardware:

• Keep an eye on temperature levels and ensure proper cooling.

• Replace worn-out or faulty hardware, like fans or batteries.

Backup Regularly:

• Store important files in external drives or cloud storage to avoid loss in case of system failure.

Monitoring your PC’s hardware performance can help you identify issues and ensure it runs smoothly.

Here are some handy tools you can use:

Task Manager (Windows):

• A built-in tool to check CPU, memory, disk, and network usage in real-time. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to access it.

Resource Monitor (Windows):

• Provides more detailed insights into hardware usage. Access it via the Performance tab in Task Manager.

HW Monitor:

• Monitors system health, including temperature, voltage, and fan speeds.

Core Temp:

• Focused on CPU temperature monitoring to ensure it stays within safe limits.

GPU-Z:

• Specialized in GPU performance, including temperature, load, and clock speed data.

CrystalDiskInfo:

• Tracks the health and temperature of your storage devices, especially HDDs and SSDs.

MSI Afterburner:

• Monitors hardware performance and offers overclocking capabilities for advanced users.

Open Hardware Monitor:

• A free and open-source tool to track temperatures, fan speeds, voltage, and more.

HWMonitor, a popular tool for monitoring your PC’s health. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using it:

Step 1: Download and Install HWMonitor

• Visit the official HWMonitor website: https://www.cpuid.com/.

• Download the software version compatible with your system (32-bit or 64-bit).

• Run the installer and follow the setup instructions to install it.

Step 2: Launch the Software

• Once installed, open HWMonitor.

• You’ll see a window displaying various data points like CPU temperature, fan speeds, and voltage levels.

Step 3: Monitor Key Metrics

• CPU Temperature: Check if it stays within safe ranges (typically below 80°C under load).

• GPU Temperature: Ensure it doesn’t exceed its safe operating temperature during heavy tasks.

• Fan Speeds: Verify that fans are running to cool your components.

• Voltages: Confirm that voltage levels are consistent and within standard ranges.

Step 4: Identify Issues

• If temperatures are too high, check cooling systems and airflow.

• If voltages are irregular, it may indicate a power supply issue.

Step 5: Take Action

• Clean your PC to improve airflow if temperatures are high.

• Replace or adjust hardware components based on the insights provided.

This tool is excellent for keeping an eye on your PC’s performance and diagnosing potential hardware issues.

Iolo System Mechanic:

• Optimizes PC performance by cleaning up junk files and monitoring hardware.

• Includes tools for improving internet speed and system stability.

Datadog Infrastructure Monitoring:

• A cloud-based tool for tracking hardware and system performance.

• Provides alerts for potential issues

Our article Tech Gone Wrong and How to Fix it may help with any other issues you may have.