Fires that produce smoke may damage your computer. Soot can coat computer covers and also penetrate internal electronic components through small openings in the chassis. Timely removal of those parts is essential for thorough cleaning and to prevent any corrosion. You’ll need a flat work surface and bright lighting to assess damage and to clean the computer and component surfaces. Once you put everything back together, run your usual diagnostic software or see your local computer techie to find out if you need replacement parts. With proper cleaning and care, your computer can last years longer.
Unplug and disconnect all cables and wires attached to the computer. Include power cords, external drive cables, printer cables and network cables.
Remove all screws from the computer cover and set them aside. Pry open or slide the case cover to open up the computer, depending on the model. Place the case cover aside.
Remove all internal computer components including CPU fan, hard drives, CD and DVD drives, monitor cards, external memory cards, game cards and external Ethernet cards. Remove the system board. Pay attention to where cards and components are located in the chassis so you can put them back later. Assess smoke damage while removing cards.
Wet a cloth with vinegar or dilute liquid soap and wipe the computer case and cover on all sides. The cloth will become black. Repeat wiping with fresh cloths until the cloth wipes away clean. Clean any screws and set everything aside to air dry.
Dampen a clean cloth with cleaning liquid. Wipe all internal device cards on all sides. Use as many cloths as necessary until the cloth comes clean when you wipe. Set components aside to air dry.
Use a clean cloth and cleaning liquid to clean all cords and cables. Wipe the full lengths of cords and cables including the plug ends. Take care not to break off Ethernet cable connectors. Set aside to air dry.
Reinstall all components in the reverse manner that you removed them. Put the case back on and plug cables and power cords into appropriate sockets.