What is the primary risk associated with removing expansion card slot covers?

Removing expansion card slot covers can lead to reduced airflow within the computer case. These covers are designed to protect the internal components and maintain optimal airflow patterns. When they are removed, the airflow can become disrupted, potentially affecting the cooling efficiency of installed components like the GPU and CPU.

Proper airflow is crucial for maintaining operating temperatures and preventing overheating. Open slots can create turbulence in the airflow, leading to hotspots where heat can accumulate rather than being effectively dissipated. This disruption can compromise the performance and longevity of hardware.

While it is true that removing these covers could expose components to dust or potentially create pathways for shorts, the most significant and immediate risk is the impact on airflow and cooling capabilities. Hence, ensuring that an appropriate balance of airflow is maintained is essential for the overall health of the computer system.