Electronics are extremely expensive yet easy to break. As a result, it could end up costing you an arm and a leg to fix or replace them. Electronic repairs aren’t cheap. You definitely don’t want to end up in debt over it. There are ways to do electronic repairs that will help you extend the life of your electronics.
Avoid credit card debt by doing your own electronic repairs.
For Video Game Systems
- Keep your system well ventilated (Especially next-gen systems that use a lot of power such as an Xbox 360 or a PlayStation 3) Make sure there are a few inches of “breathing room” where the heat from the system escapes so that it doesn’t overheat.
- Make sure to shut off your system when not in use. Leaving your system on for hours can shorten the life span significantly. (This can also save you money on your electric bill).
- Once a month wipe down the system and the areas surrounding it with a soft cloth to prevent from dust getting into the system. (If you notice dust is inside the system, use a can of compressed air to clean it. WARNING: Make sure NOT to tip the compressed air upside down or even sideways or it will blow out a freezing liquid that will harm your system. Paying to get your video game system fixed – or buying a new one -will derail your debt management efforts. You can use a vacuum to clean out the air vents.
- Don’t keep your system on a carpeted floor because carpets collect dirt. Keep it on a hard surface like wood.
For Desktops & Laptops
- You should clean your computer once every 3 months in order to keep it operating at its best. Visit http://www.computerhope.com/cleaning.htm to learn how to properly clean your computer.
- Don’t leave the computer running when not in use. If you tend to forget to shut off the computer often, you can set your computer to sleep mode so it will automatically shut off after a set amount of time when not in use.
- Make sure that your computer has a firewall and a virus protection program running. Some computer viruses can render your computer ultimately useless (Besides being a lovely paperweight).
- (For Laptops only) If you have a laptop with a heat vent on the bottom, make sure not to block the vent while using it (Don’t lay it on the bed for example). If you are using it at your desk, find something to prop it up with so that the vent can properly release heat.
For iPods, iPhones & iPads
- Make sure not to leave them in a car overnight because cars tend to either get really hot or really cold.
- If you are syncing something to your Ipod, do not disconnect until it says to do so (Even if you are in a rush), this can cause your data to corrupt and could cause permanent damage.
- Purchase a sturdy case and a screen protector for your Ipod. You would be surprised how much damage just simply dropping it once can do.
- Make sure not to leave it near a heat vent (When using as a GPS, make sure not to have it in front of a heat vent, it can cause your iPod to malfunction)
We hope these DIY electronic repairs help you save money. Electronics are costly to replace, so if you’re able to realistically fix them, it’s worth doing.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
