How to clean up SSD?

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How to clean up SSD

Solid state drives (SSDs) are a popular type of storage device in computers these days. Unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) that use spinning platters, SSDs use flash memory chips to store data. This makes them faster, more durable, and energy efficient than HDDs. However, SSDs still require some maintenance to keep them running smoothly. Over time, debris can build up on the drive reducing performance. Thankfully, cleaning up an SSD is quick and easy. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to clean and optimize your SSD.

Should You Manually Clean Your SSD?

Many people wonder if manually cleaning your SSD is really necessary. The short answer is yes, it can help in certain situations. SSDs have automatic maintenance routines called “garbage collection” that help free up unused space. However, these routines don’t always run as efficiently over time. Manually cleaning can clear out debris and ensure your SSD is performing at its best. That said, you don’t need to clean your SSD constantly. For most users, occasional cleaning such as every few months is sufficient.

How to Check if Your SSD Needs Cleaning

There are a few signs that indicate it’s time to clean up your SSD:

  • Declining performance – If programs and files are taking longer to open or save, it could mean your SSD has too much clutter.
  • Lack of free space – If your SSD is constantly low on storage even after deleting files, debris may be taking up space.
  • Age of SSD – Older SSDs are more likely to have performance issues and need a clean up.

You can also use your operating system’s built-in tools to check the health of your SSD. For example, on Windows 10 you can go to the start menu and type “defragment and optimize drives” to open up the optimization utility. This will give you information like how fragmented the files on your SSD are and whether TRIM is enabled. High fragmentation and disabled TRIM are indicators a cleanup would be beneficial.

What You’ll Need

Cleaning up and optimizing an SSD only requires a few simple tools:

  • An SSD optimization software – This specialized software cleans unnecessary files from the drive. Popular options include Samsung Magician, Kingston SSD Manager, and Intel Tool Kit.
  • Compressed air – Use this to physically blow away any dust buildup on the SSD.
  • A phillips head screwdriver – You’ll need this to open up the computer and access the SSD.

Make sure to choose an SSD optimization software that is compatible with your specific SSD brand and model. The software publisher’s website will provide system requirements and compatibility information.

Safety Precautions

Cleaning an SSD is generally safe if you take a few basic precautions:

  • Power down the computer fully and disconnect the power cable before opening up the case.
  • Wear an anti-static wristband to prevent electrostatic discharge damage.
  • Never touch the SSD circuit board components directly and avoid liquid cleaning solutions.
  • Follow all instructions from the SSD optimization software carefully.

Rushing through the process or failing to take proper electrostatic discharge precautions could potentially damage your SSD. Take your time and be gentle.

Preparing for the SSD Cleaning Process

Follow these steps to get your computer ready for an SSD cleaning:

  1. Close any open programs and documents on your computer.
  2. Backup any important files and folders on the SSD you want to clean to external storage or the cloud.
  3. Update your operating system, drivers, and SSD firmware to the latest available versions.
  4. Disable antivirus software temporarily. The optimization utilities need full access to the drive.
  5. Power down the computer and unplug the power cable from the wall.

These preparations reduce the risk of file errors or data corruption during cleaning. Updating the firmware and OS ensures maximum compatibility with the optimization utilities.

Opening the Computer Case

To access the SSD, you’ll need to open up the computer case:

  1. Place the computer on a flat, static-free work surface.
  2. Remove any screws securing the back panel of the case.
  3. Slide off the side panels to expose the internal components.
  4. Look for a small rectangular circuit board with an SATA or M.2 connection.
  5. If you don’t see the SSD, consult your computer or motherboard manual for the exact location.

Work slowly and gently to avoid damaging any internal cables or components. Having adequate lighting and a magnetic parts tray helps keep track of screws.

Removing Dust Buildup

Over time, dust can collect on the SSD circuit board and ports which can impede performance. To remove it:

  1. Put on an anti-static wristband grounded to the computer case.
  2. Attach the compressed air nozzle extension.
  3. Hold the fan and heatsink in place as you spray compressed air over the SSD.
  4. Aim the air in the direction of the ports to blow out any debris.
  5. Repeat short bursts until the circuit board is cleared.

Always keep the compressed air can upright to avoid liquid discharge. Angling it around the SSD helps dislodge stubborn dust. Avoid directly touching or scraping the circuit board.

Running the SSD Optimization Software

With the computer still powered down, you’re ready to use the optimization software:

  1. Insert the software CD or USB if you have a physical copy.
  2. Otherwise, download and install it to another PC first.
  3. Open the software and select the SSD you want to optimize.
  4. Click the clean, optimize, or defrag option to start scanning the drive.
  5. Let the software fully complete the cleaning process.

Most SSD software only takes a few minutes to perform cleaning and optimization. Follow all prompts carefully and do not interrupt the process. When finished, you can close the utility.

Re-enabling Antivirus and Backup

Before powering your computer back up, remember to:

  • Turn your antivirus software back on and update it.
  • Restore any files you backed up temporarily.
  • Reconnect external hard drives if you removed them.

This completes the pre-cleanup steps and gets your system ready for normal operation again.

Verifying SSD Performance

To check if your cleaning and optimization was successful:

  1. Restart your computer and enter the operating system.
  2. Open your optimization software and run a benchmark.
  3. Or access your OS performance monitor for metrics.
  4. Check that speeds, fragmentation, and free space improved.

If performance is still lacking, you may need to try a more thorough clean or troubleshoot other system bottlenecks unrelated to the SSD.

Closing Up the Computer

The last step is to reassemble your PC:

  1. Carefully unplug any cables you removed from the SSD.
  2. Double check all internal cables are firmly connected.
  3. Secure all screws and panels tightly but gently.
  4. Place the computer right-side up on a stable surface.

Avoid pinching any wires or overtightening screws. Visually inspect for any abnormalities before powering up the computer again.

How Often Should You Clean an SSD?

Most PC experts recommend cleaning your SSD every 6 months to 2 years. The optimal frequency depends on:

  • How heavily you use your computer
  • The age and condition of the SSD
  • How much storage space you consistently utilize
  • How many files you edit and delete daily

Heavier PC users should aim for cleanings every 6-12 months. Lighter users may only need to clean every 1-2 years. Monitor your SSD performance and free space to determine when it’s time.

Tips for Keeping Your SSD Clean Longer

You can lengthen the time between cleanings with habits like:

  • Running the TRIM command weekly
  • Setting your SSD as the default download folder
  • Installing updates and new programs to a secondary HDD
  • Over-provisioning additional storage capacity
  • Disabling virtual memory and hibernation

TRIM, over-provisioning, and disabling hibernation keep free space optimized in the background. Be careful before over-provisioning as it takes up usable space.

What Does an SSD Optimization Software Do?

SSD optimization software packages like Samsung Magician and Intel Tool Kit perform several key maintenance tasks:

  • TRIM – The TRIM command flags unused blocks to be erased and rewritten. This preserves write speeds.
  • Garbage Collection – Finds stale pages and consolidates data to free up space.
  • Wear Leveling – Distributes writes evenly to extend the SSD lifespan.
  • Defragmentation – Reorganizes files on the SSD to access them quicker.
  • Firmware Updates – Installs the latest SSD firmware for bug fixes and compatibility.

Advanced tools provide automated over-provisioning, diagnostic scans, secure erase features, and full SSD cloning capabilities.

Can Third-Party Tools Fully Optimize an SSD?

While third-party disk defragmenters may claim full SSD optimization, they rarely provide the complete experience. Key differences include:

  • Lack of proprietary commands like Samsung’s Magician Tuner
  • No built-in firmware updating capabilities
  • Lesser integration with the SSD controller
  • Absence of SSD-specific features like over-provisioning

For this reason, it’s strongly recommended to use the SSD maker’s own software. Third-party tools have more limited functionality.

Will Manually Cleaning Void My SSD Warranty?

In most cases, manually cleaning or optimizing your SSD with the manufacturer’s approved software will not void the warranty. However, take care not to:

  • Open up or alter the SSD casing itself
  • Directly edit SSD firmware or attempt manual firmware flashing
  • Use software that explicitly states it may void the warranty
  • Exceed any read/write limits when erasing or provisioning the SSD

As long as you use the SSD as intended and follow the software instructions, the warranty remains intact. Backing up your data before optimizing is another way to stay protected.

Can You Use an SSD Indefinitely?

SSD endurance has improved, but the drives still have finite lifespans. With proper maintenance, you can expect 5-10 years of working life. Heavy use cases may shorten this. Once an SSD wears out, data recovery becomes difficult or impossible. Signs of failure include:

  • Drastic performance drops
  • Failed Initialization
  • Not detected by the BIOS
  • Corrupted files and bad sectors
  • Read/write errors

At the first major warning sign, start planning for a replacement. Periodic cleanings and updates can help you get the most longevity from your SSD.

Conclusion

Cleaning and optimizing your SSD is an easy process that yields significant performance and longevity benefits. By following the steps in this guide, you can remove dust buildup and needless files taking up precious space on your SSD. Combine periodic cleanings with SSD-friendly computing habits, and your solid state drive can deliver years of fast and reliable data storage.