Is it safe to clean components with a q-tip?

[frickfrock99]

Say a 5850's fan, would that be safe to clean with a Q-tip if I grounded myself and made sure everything was off?

 

[rolli59]

Yes it should be fine I usually use a small paint brush and a can of compressed air in combination.

 

[frickfrock99]

Really?
And the rubbing of the q tip cotton against the fan wouldn't cause any harmful ESD or anything?

 

[hundredislandsboy]

Really?
And the rubbing of the q tip cotton against the fan wouldn't cause any harmful ESD or anything?

Lol, only if you rub @ 100,000 rpms to cause static electricity. Seriously, a screen wipe usually moistened with alcohol is better than a Qtip because Qtips can leave behind little cotton threads that become dust and gunk later and possibly get into the fans bearings/sleeves.

 

[frickfrock99]

Alcohol?
Like rubbing alcohol?
What concentration would you guys recommend?

 

[needsumhelplol]

Depends on how bad the fan is i guess but if it's really bad then use 75:25 alcohol:water

For the cpu's and such just use 100%

 

[frickfrock99]

Alright, and how much should I put on the Q tip?
Am I supposed to let it dry and then clean the fan or just clean the fan with it moist.

How long should I wait after cleaning the fan before I can turn on the pc?