Computers, like cars, break down. But also like cars, they don't have to. Just as regular oil changes and tune-ups will help keep your car in satisfactory working condiiton, office workstations can benefit from preventative maintenance.

With computers, that means ridding your computers of dust. Although each speck may not amount to much, when dust is left to accumulate, it can potentially wreak havoc on your system. Keeping your system-the cpu, the monitor, the keyboard, and the mouse-dust-free can go a long way in extending the life of your computer system.

All told, dust can cause the most damage to your central processing unit (CPU). Keeping the fan vents free of dust is particularly critical. If the dust builds up too much, the computer can overheat and damage your hard drive. A whiff of compressed air to force out the dust ($8/6 oz. can), or a quick wipedown with a lambswool duster can be an easy way to address the situation.

Cleaning your CPU should ideally extend to inside the case as well. But it does require special handling. If you've installed memory before, you will probably feel comfortable taking it apart. If not, it's probably best to leave that kind of cleaning up to a professional.

If your monitor is anything like mine, it can barely go a couple of months without mysteriously attaining a noticeable coat of fingerprints and dust. While this isn't as hazardous as it is with the CPU, dust on your monitor can contribute to eye fatigue. It also isn't exactly attractive.

Many vendors offer "specially formulated" cleaning solutions. Before you spend any money on one, make sure the cleaning agent won't harm your monitor. Certain chemicals-ammonia, for example, or alcohol-can damage the monitor's screen coating or plastic case. A damp lint-free cloth can be a low-cost substitute. In any case, when cleaning the monitor, wipe, don't rub.

Keyboards can also stand to be cleaned. Just turn it over and, while holding it, bang on the keyboard bottom and shake it well. All sorts of crumbs should fall out, perhaps even resolving a sticky key problem you might have.And to make the keyboard look as good as new, you can use a Q-tip dipped in a computer-approved cleaning solution to eliminate the grime.

And don't forget your mouse. A dirty mouse won't be as responsive to your movements. Twisting the circular disc on the bottom of the mouse will release the trackball. A damp cloth should keep both the bottom of the mouse and the trackball in good working order. Inside the mouse, get rid of the lint that accumulates around the rollers. A quick spritz of the compressed air, or if it's really stuck in there, a pair of tweezers should do the trick.

Computer cleaning solutions usually cost under $10 for a few ounces. If you don't care for the do-it-yourself route, you can also hire a company to clean your computers for you. We've seen rates that range from $30-$50 per hour.

Clean your computers every six months and your computers will stay in good working order--at least until they reach obsolescence.