- 1). Clean dust from the room in which the iMac is located. Remove dust from ceiling fans, air conditioning or heating units and ledges near the iMac to reduce the amount of dust capable of getting into the computer.
- 2). Place the iMac on a solid surface and clean the surface regularly. Wood, plastic and metal do not accumulate dust as much as soft surfaces like fabric and carpeting. The iMac has two intake fans located at the bottom of the computer on either side that will suck dust into the computer from underneath, so dust on the surface under the iMac will get into the computer quickly. Spraying or rubbing the surface with a cleaning compound that prevents dust buildup will extend the time between cleanings.
- 3). Cover the top of the iMac with a soft cloth or dust cover when not in use. The long slit in the top rear of the iMac is the exhaust vent. While the fans should prevent dust buildup during operation, when the computer is off dust may settle into the vent and stick to components inside. Wait at least 15 minutes after turning the computer off to cover it due to the heat of the aluminum and the inner components near the vent.
- 4). Spray the fans and vents at an angle regularly with pressurized, canned air in order to remove dust buildup. Spray the bottom fans while the computer is off to prevent dust from being sucked in further and spray the top vent while the computer is on so the exhaust air will blow dust away as it releases from the surface.
- 5). Separate your iMac from rooms with high levels of humidity, or use a dehumidifier. The humidity not only contributes to condensation on components, but also provides a moist base for dust to become stuck to the fans and housings, making it difficult to remove without physically taking apart the iMac.
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