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Spring cleaning can be spent organizing boxes filled with old photos, books and general JUNK, but some neglect tidying up their own computer box. Clearing out old programs and getting rid of all the unneeded junk on one's computer can help it not only run faster, but also last longer.

"The average lifespan of a computer in the U.S. is about two years and four months," says J.J. Schoch of Iolo Technologies. "And with a decent PC tuneup that can be [extended for] years."

Iolo is among several software developers who create one-stop solutions for streamlining PC operations. Some cleaning software can even be downloaded for free on the internet. Similar types of tools are also usually available as part of full antivirus suites like Norton or Trend Micro.

There are also some tools built into Windows which should be used every few months or so. Go into the Accessories section of the Start menu, where there are tools for cleaning up unwanted files and "defragging" the hard drive to organize it better and make it run more efficiently. There are also options to speed up the startup time by disabling programs that do not need to start when the computer does.

Experts also recommend physically cleaning one's computer; it can get filthy!

"If you don't clean it, the fans slow down, it gets dirty," says Dan Evans of PC Magazine. "The fans can't pull all the hot air out of the computer, that causes heat build up, can cause slowdown, can cause catastrophic damage. The bare minimum, once a year open it up, get a can of compressed air, blow it all out or get a damp cloth or microfiber shammy. Quickly run your fingers over your fans to clean them off."

Keep in mind not to blow air directly into the fan blades or one might risk spinning them too fast. Also, do not spray the air can upside down or the resulting blast of cold liquid could freeze the computer parts. That is just as dangerous as having them overheat.