With technology constantly changing, it has become common practice to replace electronic devices after just a few years. If you encounter a physical or software problem, such as a poorly functioning keyboard, it may seem like a sign that it’s time to upgrade that laptop for a newer model. 

Before you throw away your current laptop due to keyboard problems, consider taking it in to be repaired or replaced. Here are five keyboard issues that are easily fixed through repair or replacement.  

1) Built-up dirt and dust

In today’s day and age, many people spend eight hours or more sitting in front of their computer every day. In addition to dust settling and building up behind the keys over time, crumbs, dirt, and other grime are likely to accumulate.

With enough buildup, the keys will no longer work properly. You may have to hit some keys harder than others, while some may become responsive altogether. The best way to prevent this from happening is to regularly clean your keyboard. Pressurized air cans can be used to move the most stubborn crumbs, but simply shaking it out and wiping it gently with a clean cloth can do wonders.

If this advice is too little too late, then the simplest option from here is to get your keyboard replaced. Maintain your new keyboard by regularly cleaning it. 

2) Unresponsive keys

The sign of a great laptop that it lasts for years. However, even the best devices will begin to show signs of wear and tear, and your laptop keyboard is no exception. After many years of use, the keys will begin to wear down and become unresponsive.

If you’ve checked to make sure an unresponsive key isn’t being blocked by buildup, it’s likely that it’s worn down. In this situation, replacing keys themselves may not be feasible, but rather an entire keyboard replacement may be necessary. 

3) Sticky keys

If you’ve ever pressed a key on your keyboard and found that it resulted in the same character being repeated more than once, you have a sticky key. Sticky keys are almost always caused by buildup. If you’ve spilled a sweet, sugary drink on your keyboard in the past, this is likely to be the cause. 

Fixing sticky keys is relatively easy, often only requiring the individual sticky key to be removed and cleaned. Sometimes a damp cloth isn’t enough to remove the residue, and rubbing alcohol will be required. Just ensure you don’t use anything corrosive that could damage the key further. 

4) Rubbed-off keys 

Over time, the oils from your fingertips can corrode the symbols on the keys, making them hard to read. Although this issue doesn’t affect the functionality of your keyboard and device, it can be problematic if you plan to sell your laptop.

A key replacement is incredibly inexpensive, making this cosmetic fix a no-brainer. A device that looks brand new will go for much more than a device that shows considerable wear and tear, making this type of repair nothing but a smart investment. 

5) Software issues

In rare cases, if the keyboard on your laptop becomes unresponsive, it may not be caused by physical damage but rather by a software issue. Oftentimes when this happens, it’s simply a case of expired software that needs to be updated.

To fix this issue, simply go onto the website of the manufacturer or your laptop and look for the downloads page. You should be able to find a download file for a keyboard driver. If you’re still having issues after downloading this new software, you’ll know the problem is external rather than internal. 

Contact Computer Troubleshooters Today

If the keyboard on your laptop is showing signs of one of the above issues, you may think it’s time to buy a new laptop. Before you shell out the big bucks for a brand new system, consider spending only a fraction of the price on a keyboard repair or replacement. 

At Computer Troubleshooters, we have the experience and expertise to conduct a keyboard repair or replacement in Toowoomba and the surrounding area. Conveniently located in the Hooper Centre, each of our professional team members has at least 10 years of experience so we’re sure to be able to help, whatever the problem may be. 

In addition to keyboard repair and replacement, we offer a wide range of repair services, including screen replacement, printer repairs, and virus removal and protection. Whether you just need a couple of keys on your keyboard replaced or have additional, complex IT needs, contact Computer Troubleshooters today and one of our friendly Toowoomba team members will be happy to assist you.