Denatured alcohol is ethanol that has been treated with other chemicals to make it unsafe for people to drink or rub on their skin as a topical treatment for minor injuries. Often, denatured alcohol is tinted blue or purple to distinguish it from other types of alcohol. It is used mainly as a solvent for cleaning, which makes it an ideal solution for removing dust and oils from electronic equipment, such as a stereo receiver. Denatured alcohol cuts through the gunk, wipes clean and leaves no residue. Always test an inconspicuous part of the stereo cabinet to make sure the alcohol will not damage the finish. Not all stereo cabinets are made of chrome or steel; many are made of plastic that can discolor from alcohol.
Instructions
1. Unplug the receiver from the power supply.
2. Pour 1/4 cup of denatured alcohol into a shallow metal bowl.
3. Dip the end of a cotton swab into the alcohol.
4. Swab around the buttons, knobs and slide controls of the receiver to remove accumulated dust that can clog the equipment, block operation of the controls and harbor static electricity that can damage or destroy delicate electronics.
5. Use a cotton swab to remove dust from the vent holes on the top and back of the receiver. A swab slightly dampened in denatured alcohol is sufficient. Don't soak the cotton until it is dripping, as alcohol could seep into the cabinet and reach the electronics.
6. Pour no more than a capful of denatured alcohol onto a wadded paper towel and wipe down the receiver cabinet and the glass display panel.
7. Wait at least half an hour to let the alcohol evaporate completely before using the receiver.
Tags: cotton swab, denatured alcohol