It is an unfortunate truth of every machine that it will eventually wear down. A PS4 is no exception to this rule, especially if it sees intense, regular use. Like with every machine, however, proper maintenance and care can help it function longer and better, and one of the things you can practice as preventive maintenance is to clean it regularly.
PS4s, after all, do have moving parts—in particular, the ventilation system. The ventilation system can break down and gather dust, grime, and debris over time, and without a fully functional ventilation system, your device might end up overheating and burning out its complicated components.
Because of this, it is your responsibility to regularly open up your PS4 to clean the insides of dirt and grime to keep it operating at optimal levels. Keeping this as a habit will keep it at peak performance much longer than it is expected to because you won’t want to worry about paying for PS4 repairs.
The first step should be build-up prevention
Dust and debris are the enemies of any components with open systems like the PS4, so your first step must be to prevent their build-up. To that end, it should be elevated away from the floor, and be kept in a cool, clean area. It should also be a good distance from walls and other surfaces to allow for proper ventilation.
It might be tempting to lock your device in one of the cabinets of your entertainment center, but this will most likely keep it from ventilating properly. If you do end up storing your PS4 that way, however, make sure that the doors are open while it’s turned on.
Some people go as far as covering it with a cloth or some kind of dust protection. This is a valid option, so long as you give it ample time to cool down after you’ve turned it off.
Proper cleaning is the next
It is important to regularly clean your PS4 and the area where it is kept. If you own pets or live in a place where dust tends to build up rather quickly, this might accumulate in the internal components of your device, especially in your intake vents. Also, you should avoid using dusters and brushes near your PS4, as they are more likely to stir up the dust than remove it entirely. Using such tools on your intake valves might even push the dust inwards.
For this reason, it is safer to use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment. The brush attachment will dislodge and loosen the dust, and the suction from the vacuum will take it away. Wiping the area down with microfiber cloths and special cleaning agents designed for electronics can also go a long way to increasing the longevity of your console.
Deep cleaning might be necessary for older PS4s
The wonderful aspect of the PS4’s design is that the top can be removed easily without the use of tools. This action does not void the warranty, either. However, you will still need the proper tools to clean it. Begin by removing any discs and attachments, unplugging the console, and then opening it up.
Using a compressed air can or duster, you can blow away dust from particularly hard-to-reach areas in your console as well. For areas where you have trouble reaching, you can use cotton swabs, soft-bristled toothbrushes, a vacuum cleaner, and microfiber rags. Once your device is dust-free, reassemble it and enjoy your next game!
Conclusion
Maintenance is an important part of any machine’s life, and yet it is often one of the most neglected aspects. The PS4 is no cheap purchase, which is why appropriate cleaning must be conducted so that you can make the most out of your console. At the end of the day, prevention is better than cure. In essence, cleaning your device is easier than having to repair it.
If any symptoms persist and you think that you will require PS4 repairs in the UK, our expert technicians at Gamer Tech have got you covered. We are well-equipped to help keep your consoles up and running. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help!
