How to Make a Games Console Last

Place the games console in a well-ventilated area. It needs at least three inches of air space all the way around it whether you set it horizontally or vertically. Leave the games console in place while it's in use.

Protect the power brick. The large box is the power converter and generates a lot of heat. Make sure it is also in a well-ventilated area and not buried underneath a bunch of wires or papers. Because of the heat it generates, it's not a good idea to leave it on the carpet.

Remove the game disk after each session. Use the Main Menu option to remove it rather than just ejecting it. Be sure not to touch the lens. Store the disk in the case its original case if possible.

Give the console time to save the game properly before turning the power off. You may just lose the data for that game, but you run the risk of crashing the hard drive itself.

Store the games console in its original box. If the unit gets use daily, you can leave it out, but you should store the games console in its box when not used for an extended period.

Avoid placing the games console near anything magnetic to protect its hard drive. Also, protect the games console from environmental pollutants such as smoke and dust.

Make sure younger children handle the games console with care. That includes not drinking or eating while they are playing games. Also, teach children not to stick anything into the console including their fingers.