Smoking Near Your Computer Could Void Warranty

Computer damage caused by smoking could void your warranty on Apple products, the Consumerist reported Nov. 20.

Some Mac owners have complained that Apple refused to repair their computers under their Applecare warranty after discovering that the machines were contaminated by cigarette smoke. Computer technicians have reportedly refused to work on the machines because of the risks associated with the toxic residue left behind by cigarette smoke, which includes tars that can gunk up fans and other vital computer parts.

Owners contend that secondhand smoke is not listed as grounds for voiding their warranties in Applecare documents, but Apple officials contend in correspondence with customers that the company won’t compel workers to risk their health in order to do a repair. However, Apple has not directly responded to questions from reporters on this issue.