When properly maintained, liquid-crystal displays (LCDs) can last for a very long time. Many LCDs, in fact, last for up to twice as long as their plasma counterparts. Whether it’s a computer monitor, a tablet or any other LCD display, though, you’ll need to maintain it. By following these tips, you can increase the lifespan of your LCD so that it’s protected from premature failure.
Clean It
Not surprisingly, cleaning your LCD can make it last longer. LCDs aren’t immune to dust and debris. Over time, they’ll accumulate airborne pollutants such as this. If not cleaned, dust and debris can degrade your LCD’s display while subsequently shortening its lifespan in the process.
You can clean an LCD using a microfiber cloth. Avoid using paper towels or standard fabric towels. Instead, use a microfiber cloth with a super-soft and fine texture. Take this dry microfiber cloth and gently wipe the LCD’s display to clean it.
Adjust the Contrast
Another way to make your LCD last longer is to adjust the contrast. Contrast, of course, is the intensity between an LCD’s dark and bright colors. If the contrast is too high, your LCD will produce extremely bright colors. Why does this matter?
Brightness is produced by backlighting. All LCDs contain backlighting, the most common of which being light-emitting diode (LED). If you set the contrast too high, your LCD’s backlighting will have to work harder to achieve the appropriate level of brightness, which can shorten its lifespan. Therefore, you should consider lowering your LCD’s contrast if you want to make it last longer.
Keep It Ventilated
LCDs can produce heat. While they typically run much cooler than other display devices, they’ll produce heat as a byproduct. As a result, you need to keep your LCD ventilated. If it’s placed in a tight corner with little or no space, heat may build up inside of your LCD to the point where it causes premature failure.
You can place an LCD just about anywhere. As long as it’s well-ventilated, heat will dissipate from it.
Turn Off When Not Using
Consider turning off your LCD when you aren’t using it. If you leave it on, it will continue to consume electricity. Not only does this increase the operational cost of your LCD; it can shorten its lifespan as well.
If your LCD constantly runs, it will consume electricity as the backlighting continues to illuminate the display. Once the backlighting goes out, you’ll have to either have it replaced, or you’ll have to invest in a new LCD.
