7 Computer Repair Tips for Your Home or Office
Some problems make you want to throw your computer out the window — especially when you have upcoming deadlines or cat videos to watch!
What could be causing your computer so much trouble?
Close the window and put the computer down because you can fix it with specific information and simple tools. Here are our tips for you to start your computer repair strategy within the hour.
Hardware Problems
1. Computer Overheats
Computers run much better in cold environments. If you find yourself with an overheating computer, then it's time to take action.
Hot computers will slow down operating processes and power up the fan to try to dissipate the heat.
Here are some things you can do to overcome the heat:
Power off your computer and let it rest
Move your PC away from heat sources
Lower the temperature on your thermostat
Clean your computer hardware
Remove dust from the fans using compressed air
Attach additional cooling fans
You'll want to power off your computer before performing some of these activities.
Once you clean your computer, you can let it sit for some time before powering it up again. Afterward, the computer should run much more smoothly and without the loud whirring of the fan at top speed.
2. Computer Won't Turn On
In most cases, your computer will turn on with the press of the power button. Sometimes, your computer may refuse to come online, which points to a power supply issue.
Is your computer plugged in properly? Check the power cord to ensure that both ends fit into the PC and the electric outlet. A simple jiggle can solve the problem.
Does your laptop battery have any juice? Your laptop needs battery power to operate, so keep it charged by plugging it into a power source.
If your PC or laptop still does not boot up from the power button, then it may be time to replace the power supply or battery pack. Make sure to purchase the same model or a suitable replacement that fits into the opening and has the required amount of power. Computer repair shops nearby (i.e: iFixOmaha) can offer expert advice.
3. Computer Won't Respond to Button Presses
It can be frustrating to deal with a computer that won't respond to keyboard strokes or mouse clicks. An unresponsive computer can mean that your computer equipment is overdue for some cleaning.
Before bringing out the computer cleaning supplies, check to ensure that your mouse and keyboard are both plugged into their respective sockets. Some computers require a restart when disconnecting and reconnecting devices, so be prepared to restart the computer if your input devices still do not work.
Keyboards and mice also often have a massive buildup of dead skin cells and dirt that prevent you from pressing buttons. Power off your computer, disconnect your devices and clean with your choice of cleaning solution. Let them dry, then reconnect and power up your computer once again.
4. Computer Crashes and Noises
7 Computer Repair Tips for Your Home or Office
“Your friendly neighborhood IT professionals at iFixOmaha are here to help you fix your computer problems and get you back on track as quickly as possible.”
You expect your computer to stay on, so a computer crash can signify a problem. Symptoms can include sporadic computer crashes, blue screens, corrupt files, missing files, or audible noises from your computer. The problem may be your hard drive.
Hard drives don't last forever and require replacement or repair after years of regular use. The moving parts within the hard drive will break down and need your attention.
If you don't have any important files you want to keep, then you're free to replace the hard drive with no regrets.
You only need to transfer files you want to keep. If you have none of those, then you can replace the entire hard drive with a new one.
If you have computer files to keep, prepare to transfer them to another hard drive.
If you cannot boot up your computer, look for computer repair near me to retrieve your files. However, you may want to get in touch quickly due to the nature of the problem.
Software Problems
5. Computer Runs Slowly
It's natural for computers to run slower over time. The problem could be anything, but is most likely an overheating issue, low disk space, or greedy programs.
Start by creating a restore point; if something goes wrong, you can restore your computer to a previous state. Try to fix the problem by doing any of the following:
Remove excess programs
Delete unneeded files
Defragment your hard drive
Update your operating system
Optimize your startup
Clean your registry
Disable programs or services
After doing any of these tasks, restart your computer.
6. The Computer is Infected with a Virus or Malware
Viruses and malware can cause all sorts of problems for your computer, from deleting files to taking over the computer itself. More dangerous programs can even steal your identity or financial information.
If you suspect that you have a virus or malware problem, download a PC security solution. There are free options, but many of them will require a purchase.
Install the security apps onto your computer, run the update, then scan the entire computer. You may have to leave it running for many hours, depending on the size of your hard drive and the speed of your computer. The software will identify intruders and can delete them with the click of a button.
If you cannot access your computer at all, then look for help from a professional computer repair shop near you to remove the virus or malware.
7. Computer Loads Websites Slowly
New computers can load websites very quickly, even on massive platforms such as Facebook. If your browser loads web pages very slowly or stalls, then you may want to fix your browser.
Try deleting your browser's temporary internet files and other junk using the browser's privacy feature. Alternatively, you can use third-party software to do the same.
Disable or delete any plugins, add-ons, extensions, and themes. Your browser may run fast again without these extra features.
If all else fails, then reinstall the browser. Start by uninstalling the program, followed by a computer restart. Download a new installation file using a different browser, then install it. Restart the computer once more and enjoy a faster browsing experience.
Computer Repair at Home or a Shop
Computer problems can occur randomly, often at the worst possible times. You can attempt to perform computer repair on minor issues, but more complex ones may require the help of a local computer repair shop.
Your friendly neighborhood IT professionals at iFixOmaha are here to help you fix your computer problems and get you back on track as quickly as possible. Book an appointment today.
