Question: My computer seems to randomly shutdown and restart, what might be wrong with it?
Answer: There are many reason's that a computer can randomly shutdown and restart. It could be caused by a virus, some malware or maybe a hardware problem, but the most usual culprit will be heat. When we are talking about heat, we are not say a hot room, but heat buildup in the computer itself. One of the first questions we ask a customer or potential customer is "When was the last time your computer was cleaned?". The most common answer we get is never, which is not good.
A computer and most other electronics have fans in them that either pull air into or push it out the computer case. Regardless of the direction that the air moves, it will be pulling dirt, dust, hair, smoke and just about anything that may be in the air, home or office into the inside of the computer. This is not good at all. These "dirt" particles get deposited inside the machine and build up over time and make your computer run hot and in most cases (hopefully), makes your computer randomly shutdown and restart.
It is our policy to recommend to customers that you have the inside of your computer cleaned at least twice (2) times per year, spring and fall. A good rule of thumb is to clean the around the same time you change the your clocks (March and November) or around those times. This would also be a good time to check and change the batteries in your smoke detectors.
Cleaning out your computer is not that hard. If you feel comfortable opening and working inside your computer, you can do it yourself. You just need to pick up a can or two of compressed air at a local store. Most places sell them in twin packs which, depending on how long since its been cleaned, may be needed to get your computer cleaned. Also recommend that you do this outside of your house or business, as it can cause a lot of dust to fly.
But If you don't feel comfortable in opening or messing around inside your computer, please call us to schedule a cleaning. We will be happy to come and take care of it for you. Not only will we clean out the inside of the computer, but will also clean up around the area where your computer stored to help reduce the amount dirt and dust just sitting there.