Windows 7: Rattling PSU

Dogz · 18 Jan 2011

Hello All,

As my thread title says I am getting a rattling noise from my PSU fan. It only does this on cold starts. Once my computer warms up the noise dies away. Should I replace my PSU or just use it.

DeaconFrost · 18 Jan 2011

The only moving parts are the exhaust fans, so if they are rattling, they either need to be cleaned with compressed air, or they are going bad. If they die, and the PSU overheats, it could take other components to the grave with it, so I'd try cleaning out with compressed air really good. If that doesn't solve the issue, I'd replace it.

thehappyman · 18 Jan 2011

Quote: Originally Posted by Dogz

Hello All,

As my thread title says I am getting a rattling noise from my PSU fan. It only does this on cold starts. Once my computer warms up the noise dies away. Should I replace my PSU or just use it.

It could be the fan but could also be a loose "winding" on the power transformer ) or "toroid") which is vibrating. Any way to take it apart while the PC is on (probably not). Any screws to tighten ??? (probably not). Any other way to get rid of the noise other than getting a new PSU (probably not). Am I in a rut here (probably am).
Good Luck with it.

Dogz · 18 Jan 2011

Another thing it only happens when the computer hasn't been stareted in a while otherwise it's fine. But I think I will get a new one any suggestions?

GeneO · 19 Jan 2011

How old id the power supply? If you invest in a good new one you can use it for a future replacement build. A well chosen PSU or case can outlive the rest of the computer.

Dwarf · 19 Jan 2011

I would consider a replacement PSU. Make sure that it is of the same rating (or greater) than the one currently installed.

The rattling sound is indicative of an impending fan bearing failure, and whilst you might be fine now one of these days the fan isn't going to work at all and your PSU will overheat causing problems. Incidentally, transformer noise ranges from a gentle hum to a piercing whine dependant on the frequency involved. Rattling generally involves a mechanical component such as a fan.

Dogz · 19 Jan 2011

I built this computer about 3 year ago.

GeneO · 19 Jan 2011

Then I'd advise replace with a higher quality higher wattage PSU you can use for your next build (Sandy Bridge!(

Hopalong X · 19 Jan 2011

Since you are using a Raidmax 380 now I'd go with something in the neighborhood of 500W.

Corsair, Antec, Cooler Master are good brands.

This is more than you need but a decent price. $70
Newegg.com - COOLER MASTER GX Series RS650-ACAAE3-US 650W ATX12V v2.31 80 PLUS Certified Active PFC Power Supply

Corsair. Skip the first one in the list the 430W. Ratings are so-so.
Newegg.com - Computer Hardware,Power Supplies,Power Supplies,Corsair

Newegg should have some new sales out tomorrow.
Mike

pparks1 · 19 Jan 2011

Yeah, sounds like a bearing going in the fan.

I've got a Corsair HX 620 modular power supply in my case and I really like it.

Windows 7: Rattling PSU

Rattling PSU problems?