What methods are available to safeguard my computer in a very humid setting?
What methods are available to safeguard my computer in a very humid setting?
I built a new computer two years ago using an Asus B550 motherboard in a Corsair 220 T - Midi tower. Because we reside near the sea, the humidity inside our home remains high, and when windows are open, salt enters through the wind. I believed the aluminum case would be safe, but I realized the entire underside of my case is corroded with white rust. This corrosion was discovered while trying to figure out why the computer wouldn’t start. It seems the motherboard could also be affected, so replacing it might be necessary.
I would relocate it to a more enclosed area with openings that don't directly face the sea. Place it on a wooden base, maybe inside a wooden cabinet, and position a table fan straight ahead of it fully on. This won't halt the corrosion completely, but it should reduce the rate somewhat.
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My office is positioned towards the sea, and at the rear of the house, we only have bedrooms without enough room for all the computer equipment, so the computer remains in its current place.
I appreciate the suggestion to put the computer on a wooden base, as it could help prevent rising damp.
Regarding using the table fan at full speed: I’m not sure it would be helpful, because it might push more humid and salty air into the computer case.
From my perspective, the best approach would be to regularly take apart and clean the interior parts using 70% alcohol to eliminate accumulated salt deposits. A quarterly cleaning should suffice. It appears that the primary cause is just salt buildup.
The purpose of the table fan aligns with the previous recommendation of a less exposed area away from the sea, placed inside a wooden cabinet. The goal is to limit the direct entry of salty air and disperse moisture through a gentle breeze.
It's an interesting challenge.
If you decide to swap MB, there are some Asus models with superior specifications (military grade is the claim) featuring stainless steel components and notably, a protective coating over the circuits to safeguard them. They previously offered products covered in Teflon!
You might consider using protected, corrosion-resistant parts and a plastic case instead.
I'd likely place a Perspex shield or enclosure between the PC and the sea air if it enters directly, though I'm not sure it would be effective.
Interesting message! I also looked at the Asus website, and it says the TUF-Gaming motherboards include military-grade parts.