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How to Clean a Canon 20D sensor

Introduction

The Canon 20D has a self-cleaning function that usually keeps the sensor clean. However, oil, dust, and other particles can still stick to the sensor. These particles will need to be removed manually. You will need to be very gentle because the sensor is delicate. With the proper tools you can clean the sensor yourself and not have to bring your camera into a store. Every camera model is different so refer to your owner’s manual for more information.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You'll Need:

- Computer with Photoshop

- Air blower

- Soft brush

- Photo wipe swab

- Specialty cleaning solution

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare for the cleaning by using the camera’s self-cleaning program. Turn the power off and then turn it back on. Put the camera into “Av” mode and put the lens in “manual.” Set the exposure two stops over the reading and zoom in as far as your camera will go. Take a picture of a white card or a similar object.

Step 2

Upload the picture to your computer. Open the program Photoshop and pull your picture up onto the screen. Put the screen on the 100% magnification setting. Check if there is any dust or if you see any smudges on the picture.

Step 3

Charge your battery fully. If you don’t have a charged batter, plug your camera into an AC power source. A battery that is not charged or charging will slow down your cleaning.

Step 4

Remove the camera lens. Adjust the camera into its sensor cleaning mode which will make sure that the shutter and mirror will be locked up and not in your way while you are cleaning. The following is how you put the camera on its sensor cleaning mode. First, turn on the camera. Then, turn the dial to one of the Creative Zone settings (like “Av”). Check out the Set-up 2 section in the camera’s menu. There you will find a section called Sensor Cleaning. Click “Clean Manually” under the Sensor Cleaning section. Hit the Set button, press OK, and then hit the Set button another time. This will cause the mirror to pop up and the shutter to open.

Step 5

Remove large particles with an air blower. Use the soft brush to tenderly brush the sensor. You can also try wiping a swab dipped in specialty cleaning solution evenly over the sensor.

Step 6

Turn the camera off. Put the lens back on. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 and check for improvement.

Tip

Wiping in even strips is more effective than rubbing when using the specialty cleaning solution.

Warning

Do not turn off the camera, open the battery, or open the Compact Flash card compartment while cleaning or you may have to send your camera for some expensive repairs.