Be careful, your computer can catch fire at home: how to avoid it

A PC gamer recently had a house fire after leaving his computer running for five straight days next to a core fan. Fortunately, the user and his family were not harmed, although the material losses were significant.

The event started when the user decided to keep their computer on to avoid overheating, while supporting the other device. Which led to a fire that consumed a large part of their house. Despite the concerns, he expressed hope that some components could be salvaged with the help of a technical friend.

other users in the community, They shared their experiences about being immersed in similar eventswhich highlights the danger of being unaware of the consequences of letting your computer overheat.

Keeping your computer secure is essential to avoid incidents like the ones described. Below we provide a series of recommendations for preventing fires in equipment.

Purchasing fans and other electronic items of good quality is essential. Cheap products may look tempting, but their durability and safety may be compromised.

Choosing recognized brands and certified products significantly reduces the risk of accidents. Always check other consumer reviews and the manufacturer’s reputation before making a purchase.

Dust is a common enemy of computersBecause it can clog the ventilation channels and increase the temperature of the components.

It is recommended to clean the inside of the computer regularly using compressed air and avoid using liquids that cause short circuits.

You should ensure that the equipment is in a well-ventilated place. Avoid placing your computer in enclosed or confined spaces that can trap heat. Additionally, using high-quality case fans can improve air circulation within the case.

Leaving your computer turned on for long periods may increase the risk of overheating, especially if it is not cooled adequately. If you do not plan to use your computer for a long time, turn it off to reduce the risk of accidents and save energy.

Use monitoring software to closely monitor CPU and GPU temperatures. Programs like HWMonitor, Core Temp, and MSI Afterburner can alert you if temperatures exceed safe limits. Monitor temperatures below and above the manufacturer’s recommended limits to prevent damage to components.

Incorporating safety systems such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers near the area where your computer is located is a preventative measure that can make a difference in the event of a fire. These devices can detect and contain a fire before it spreads.

Make sure that all cables and electrical connections are in good condition. Avoid using extension cords or excessive power strips, as they can cause short circuits and cause fires. Likewise, consider using surge protectors to prevent unexpected power surges.

Some operating systems and software allow you to configure alerts and automatic shutdowns in case of overheating. Take advantage of these features to protect your devices and avoid further damage.

Keeping your system hardware and software up to date is essential to your computer’s security and performance. Manufacturers often release updates that include security improvements and bug fixes.

These pending updates should not be ignored, as this may prevent failures that could lead to fires or malfunctions.