how to clean HP 250 G5 keyboard ?

[tifrus]

i have an HP 250 G5 Notebook   i need to know if i can pop the keys (few) off the keyboard, or do I have to disassemble all parts ....they stick and need to be cleaned because of soda (PCola). Thank you

[Huffer]

It is an island style keyboard. Very hard to remove but more importantly to replace individual keys. 

I can't recommend replacing the whole keyboard, either. Here is the Service Manual:

Manual

See p. 86. It is very, very difficult to do. HP only sells the keyboard as part of the top cover and replacing it essentially requires completely rebuilding the laptop. 

So what to do? Get some high proof rubbing alcohol (so it evaporates quickly and clean) and work around the keys with a Q-tip and see if you can dissolve the gunk and get the keys to stop sticking. 

If this is "the Answer" please click "Accept as Solution" to help others find it. 

[iomare · Accepted solution]

Hi,

You can "pop the keys" off the keyboard with a thin screwdriver from the side of the key. Just be carefull that the small wings are in place before clicking the keys back on again. I would use ethil alcohol to clean the cola.

Let me know,

David

[Huffer]

Yes you can absolutely pop them off. But I can't count the number of times I was helping out in the computer repair shop when somebody brings in a laptop and a handful of keys they "popped off" and can't get back on. If you have done it a few times it is not too bad, but there is a learning curve and requires good eyesight and a steady hand. Avoid popping them off if you can. 

[tifrus]

Thank you very much for your help. I've used technical alcohol and it seems it works. I'll wait one or two days to see what's happens

[tifrus]

Thank you very much for your help. I've used technical alcohol and it seems it works. I'll wait one or two days to see what's happens6