Cleaning a gaming monitor should be done regularly to maintain peak performance and image quality. It can be done easily with a few basic supplies and knowing the best method for the type of screen you have. Modern gaming monitors are becoming increasingly complex and delicate pieces of equipment, meaning it is important to take the correct steps when cleaning.
The first step is to switch off your monitor and disconnect any cables. Allow the monitor to cool down before you start cleaning. The next step is to use the right cleaning materials. Avoid household cleaners, abrasive cleaners, or even just water, as these can all damage screens. Instead, purchase a specialized cleaning surface specifically designed for use with gaming monitors which contains anti-bacterial agents to keep dust and fingerprints away.
Before starting to clean, bear in mind there are two types of screens, either an IPS or a TN. Different methods should be used when cleaning these two different types of screen, or else damage could occur. For the IPS screens, use the damp microfiber cloth to gently wipe the screen and don’t press too hard. If dirt or dust needs to be removed, use the compressed air canister to blow them away from the screen. For the TN screens, use a mix of 70% Isopropyl Alcohol and 30% water as the solution to wipe the screen, and be careful not to press too hard onto the screen as this could cause damage or image distortion.
The next step is to buff away any remaining marks or smudges. Again, this must be done carefully and with the right material depending on the type of monitor. For example, use the dry microfiber cloth for an IPS monitor and make sure you don’t use too much pressure while rubbing the cloth on the screen. For the TN monitor, use the specialized polish cloths available from gaming stores or manufacturers. Make sure you only use the polish cloth provided and no other type of cloth or material.
Finally, you can use a screen protectant to further protect your gaming monitor. This will help reduce the damage caused by dust, oil and fingerprints. You can apply this by simply spraying it onto the screen, and then wiping it off with a dry cloth. Screen protectants contain a special blend of chemicals, which help repel dust and other particles, making it easier to clean and extending the lifespan of your monitor.
Prevention
It is a much better practice to take the necessary precaution to add more protection and durability to our gaming monitor. We can begin by making sure that all surfaces are wiped down frequently to remove dust and other residues. It is also important to make sure that the area around the gaming monitor is also kept dust-free, as this can also cause build-up on the screen. Additionally, cover the screen with a screen protector to reduce the dust, oil and fingerprint marks.
Another way to prevent the build-up of dust and fingerprints is to make sure that we keep our hands clean and to avoid contact with the screen when possible. If the screen does become dirty, it is best to immediately clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth and appropriate cleaner, as this will help avoid further damage. We should also ensure that only the approved cleaner is used on the screen, and avoid using too much pressure when wiping.
Lastly, it is a good practice to power off the gaming monitor when it is not in use and not to place it in a place with direct sunlight. The direct sunlight can cause the monitor to overheat, which can lead to irreversible damage. Additionally, avoid leaving it on paused screens for too long, as this can also cause image retention on the monitor.
Monitor Maintenance
It is important to take regular maintenance steps to maximize the lifespan and the performance of our gaming monitor. This includes periodically calibrating the monitor with a software utility to ensure accurate and consistent colors, as well as to ensure the settings are optimal for gaming. Additionally, you should update the drivers as soon as new versions become available to remove any bugs or glitches.
We should also regularly check for any loose or damaged cables and fix them as soon as possible. Also, make sure that the monitor is kept away from any kind of vibration or shock, as these can cause damage to the components. If the monitor is also kept in low temperatures, it is important to add an extra layer of protection with a monitor cover.
Another important maintenance step is to regularly check for any dead pixels or light bleed. Dead pixels are small dots that remain black or red, and sometimes white, on the screen and can be caused by damage or electrical current. Light bleed is the leaking of light, usually from the edges or corners of the monitor, and is usually caused by a defective LCD panel or defective LCD controller.
Along with preventive measures and maintenance, we should also unplug the gaming monitor when it’s not in use or when we’re going on vacation. This will help to protect the monitor from any potential electrical problems, as well as preventing any dust build-up.
Conclusion
Cleaning and maintaining a gaming monitor is important and should be done on a regular basis to ensure it runs properly. Proper cleaning methods, preventive measures and maintenance steps should be followed to extend the life of the monitor and protect it from any potential damage. The right cleaning materials should be used to make sure the monitor is not damaged, and proper care should be taken when cleaning sensitive screens.
