Power cord on my desktop keeps melting.

[jayjaycostello]

Hi Guys,

First time posting here so be kind.

I have a Phillips desktop machine which up to a few weeks ago was running fine. 4 weeks back I was running a virus scan and left the machine alone only to return an hour later and find the machine off and the power cord at the back completely melted at the connector.

After an initial panick I replaced the cord and the machine booted up again and ran absolutely fine.

4 weeks have passed now and today I noticed a burning smell whilst the computer was on and I noticed the power cord was starting to seriously melt again.

Any thoughts?

P.S. I have checked the machine for internal dust clogging fans and the first time the cord melted there was alot of dust stuck in both extracting fans. The second time the cable melted I checked inside the machine to find absolutely no dust.

Thanks,
Jay

 

[TVeblen]

Hello jayjaycostello. Welcome to the forum.

I am assuming that this melting occurs on the end of the cord that plugs into the PC's power supply. If this is the case then you should replace that power supply immediately. Do not use the computer until you have done so, but if you must then only use it while attended.

The most likely reason is that the connector is loose in the socket and the contacts are arcing. The fact that you replaced the cord and it is still doing it means that the socket is permanently damaged or there is a serious short circuit inside the power supply. Nothing that can be fixed by the home user.

Don't mess with it. It is a fire hazard.

 

[kbrady1979]

Whatever you do, DO NOT open up the power supply and try to fix it yourself. They can hold enough power to kill you, even after powered down correctly. If you need suggestions for a replacement power supply, just ask.

 

[jayjaycostello]

Thanks guys,

I would class myself as quite competent inside a computer but think i will drop it off to a local repair shop.

I dont like messing with power supplies so i would rather pay to get it fixed.

Many thanks for your advice.
Jay

 

[kbrady1979]

Don't be surprised if a local shop turns down the work because of the risks involved.......even for a professional. I'd just as soon spend $50-75 on a new PS than try to have one repaired, but that is my opinion.

Good luck and hope you get it worked out soon!

 

[Layback Bear]

Forget fixing the power supply. Replace it.

 

[Lady Fitzgerald]

Labor costs alone for fixing the PSU would run over the cost of replacing it. And you would still have a used PSU.

 

[jayjaycostello]

Just to close this off.

I replaced the power supply myself and the machine is now working the very best.

Thanks for all the suggestions guys. I just took your advice.