Five Signs Your Computer Needs Professional Attention

When it comes to the health of our laptops and PC computers, we’re often all-too keen to remain in denial that anything is wrong when in reality we’re inches from disaster. Sort of the same way most won’t accept they themselves are ill until practically at death’s door, computers are seen as infallible and even when almost nothing is working anymore, the fact that the power light is on is usually enough to stave off calling the PC repair service for at least another day.

Sadly though…and again just like in the human scenario…it’s often a case of early detection being key to not only ensuring a full recovery, but also a fast and cheap one at that. So while it’s not exactly beneficial to be something of a PC hypochondriac and assume that every beep means certain death, it is very important to be aware of what’s going on and know how to pick up on danger signs when and where they occur. So while the majority of slowdowns, bugs and other day to day problems can be tackled at home with a wee bit of elbow grease and a download or two, here’s a look at some of the danger signs indicating that your computer really does need a professional examination. There are of course way more than five, so be sure to blend a little common sense into the mix:

1 – Strange Sounds

It’s funny how many PC repair service engineers every day face the same story where a user talks of hearing a strange sound prior to their computer crapping out on them. And when asked how long the sound went on for, a huge proportion will say weeks, months or more – adding that they just got used to it and ended up ignoring it! Not to put too dramatic an analogy to it, but when a computer of any kind starts making a strange noise this is as good as it literally crying out for help! From the slightest whirring noise to a high-pitched squeak to the odd thudding noise here and there, any and all could be the sign of something wearing away, coming loose or eating away at the data you hold dear. Don’t ignore it – deal with it!

2 – Strange Smells

Mercifully rare than strange noises, strange smells are usually even more pressing signs that something is very wrong. Shy of something crawling in your machine and dying, a weird smell from beneath the surface usually indicates something burning out, or at least coming dangerously close to burning out. From wear to excess dust and so many others besides, if it doesn’t smell like you think it should, let the pros have a sniff of it!

3 – Data Loss

We all delete things we didn’t mean to from time to time, but if things keep going missing and you’re quite sure you aren’t suffering from any personal memory issues, chances are it’s a cry for help from your computer. Data loss often starts off minor and can in the blink of an eye become catastrophic, so even if so far you’ve only lost a few bits and pieces you didn’t really care about, it’s not worth taking the risk that the whole lot might vanish tomorrow!

4 – Power Problems

If and when you find yourself having frequent problems booting up, shutting down or even keeping your computer on, chances are you need the input of a pro. Power problems might not seem like the end of the world, but a surge of juice at the wrong time can literally fry everything connected to your computer at the time…including you! It’s not worth taking the risk where electricity is involved, have a word with an expert.

5 – Overheating

And finally for this list at least, if your computer has for some reasons started feeling a tad hotter than you’re used to, don’t ignore it. First, make sure all air vents and intakes are clear and that the fan (if present) is spinning. If all checks out and it’s still getting a wee bit too toasty, you need it looking at as you could have on your hands a serious fire hazard.

About Author: Ilya Elbert works for AllIT, a full service IT solutions company that caters to the entire continental United States. He is currently the nationwide account executive. Follow him on Twitter to receive IT news and updates.