A good laptop is the difference between average and truly high productivity for many people – corporate employees and self-employed alike. These devices serve as our portable offices, entertainment hubs, and communication lifelines. However, their mobility also makes them susceptible to various forms of physical damage. From accidental drops to spills and overheating, laptops face a myriad of threats that can compromise their functionality and longevity. You should be aware of the most frequent types of physical damage that happen to laptops and how to prevent or mitigate them.
Cracked screens
Perhaps the most common type of physical damage, cracked screens can occur from accidental drops, impacts, or pressure applied to the display. A cracked screen not only compromises the visual aesthetics of the laptop but can also hinder usability and lead to further damage if left untreated. To prevent cracked screens, buy a protective laptop case or sleeve and handle your device with care, avoiding placing heavy objects on top of it or carrying it in overcrowded bags.
Hinge issues
Those are a common and often overlooked form of laptop damage that can have serious consequences for the device’s functionality and longevity. Over time, the hinges connecting the laptop’s display to the base may become loose, stiff, or misaligned. First you’ll sense some difficulties opening or closing the laptop, but then the display cables can get damaged. Additionally, excessive force or rough handling can cause the hinges to break or snap, rendering the laptop unusable.
To prevent hinge issues, avoid any undue pressure on the display when opening or closing it. If you notice any signs of hinge damage or instability, seek professional assistance to prevent further damage to the laptop. Remember: any laptop hinge repair cost is ever as high as the price of a new device you’ll have to acquire if you let this damage go unrepaired for too long.
Liquid spills
Accidental spills are a nightmare for laptop owners, since water, coffee, or bourbon (who knows, right?) seeping into the device can cause irreparable damage to internal components. Liquids can short-circuit the motherboard, corrode electrical connections, and lead to malfunctioning of the laptop. To minimize the risk of liquid damage, avoid consuming drinks near the device and use spill-resistant lids when possible. In case of a spill, immediately power off the laptop, disconnect the charger, and wipe off any excess liquid before seeking professional assistance.
Overheating
Laptops are prone to overheating due to their compact design and limited ventilation. Over time, dust buildup in the internal components can obstruct airflow and cause the laptop to get heated quickly, which in turn leads to performance issues and potential hardware failure. To prevent overheating, regularly clean the vents and fan using compressed air and avoid using the laptop on soft surfaces that can block airflow. Additionally, invest in a laptop cooling pad to dissipate heat and prolong the lifespan of your device.
Physical impact damage
Accidental drops and impacts are inevitable for portable devices – don’t feel too bad about those. Yet they often result in dents, scratches, or internal damage to the laptop. Impact damage can affect not only the external casing but also delicate internal components such as the hard drive, motherboard, and memory modules. To protect your laptop from physical impact damage, handle it with care and avoid placing it near edges or on unstable surfaces.
Keyboard damage
Dust, aforementioned spills, and debris can wreak havoc on a laptop’s keyboard, causing keys to become sticky, unresponsive, or malfunctioning altogether. Accidental impacts or rough handling can also be a threat, resulting in broken or detached keys, rendering the keyboard unusable.
To prevent keyboard damage, avoid eating or drinking near your laptop, and regularly clean the keyboard using compressed air and a soft brush. In case of sticky keys, gently remove the keycaps and clean underneath using a damp cloth or cotton swab.
Battery swelling
Over time, laptop batteries may experience swelling due to factors such as overcharging, excessive heat, or age-related degradation. This not only affects the performance and battery life of the laptop but also poses a safety hazard, as it can rupture or leak corrosive chemicals. To prevent battery swelling, avoid overcharging the laptop and use a reputable charger compatible with your device. If you notice signs of battery swelling such as a bulging or distorted casing, immediately stop using the device and seek professional assistance.
Conclusion
Laptops are vulnerable to a variety of physical damage causes, ranging from cracked screens and liquid spills to overheating. By understanding which issues are most relevant in your case and handling the device as carefully as possible, you, as the owner, can prolong its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
Investing in protective accessories, practicing safe handling habits, and performing regular maintenance is the bare minimum – don’t miss on those simple yet very helpful practices. A little care and attention can go a long way in safeguarding your laptop against the perils of everyday use.
