Spring is right around the corner. Time to take a broom to the dirt and the dated – and, while you’re at it, don’t forget to make a clean sweep of your electrical devises! When was the last time you wiped down your TV screen? Has the cat gotten into your cables one too many times?

Dust a Move.

Dust can be an unwelcome guest to a clean home. Not only is it unsightly, but it also poses a threat to our electrical appliances. Dust can cause electronics to jam; it can cause permanent damage to electromechanical parts, rendering them useless.

But there are ways to prevent that happening.

  1. Give your electronics a boost. Keeping electronics on the floor ground makes them more susceptible to dust. Move them to higher ground.
  2. Use dust covers. Whether its your piano or PlayStation, covers can eliminate dust and the time it takes to clean when not in use.
  3. Use a microfiber chamois or pure cotton cloths, distilled water and isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol to clean your devises.

Retire the Wire

As a home ages, so does its electrical components. If you’re home is 30 years or older, it may be time to replace your wiring. If your wires are frayed or damaged from heavy tread, naughty animals or general ware and tear, then it’s time for an overhaul. Also, keep an eye out if:

  1. You overuse extension cords. (You may need more outlets in your home.)
  2. The breaker consistently trips.
  3. Lights dim or flicker when you turn on a devise. (No, your house is not haunted.)
  4. Outlets and other electrical components are stained or cracked.

Everything is Covered in Germs

That’s why it’s important to keep your gadgets spic and span day to day. The best (and gentlest) way to clean your electronic devices it to use distilled water or rubbing alcohol and a microfiber cloth to wipe them down. Cotton balls or swabs are great for getting into those heard to reach places. Make sure to tackle areas and appliances that are exposed to:

  1. Air (dust)
  2. Food (oils, crumbs, particles)
  3. Heavy use. Just because your phone or tablet has a screen protector, doesn’t mean it’s germ-free. Use a Q-tip to get along the edges. Rubbing alcohol may be a godsend for dirty LCD screens but avoid use on plasmas or rear projection televisions.

Remember - any time you clean an electronic devise, make sure it is turned off and unplugged. And, no need to scrub! You don’t need a lot of elbow grease to eliminate grime and gunk. Much can be accomplished by using a gentle touch.

For more information on caring for your gadgets, check out Mister Sparky’s Expert Tips.