Rattling PSU

[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.

 

[DeaconFrost]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

I built this computer about 3 year ago.

 

[GeneO]

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

 

[Hopalong X]

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]

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.

 

[smarteyeball]

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.

Try loosening the metal fan shroud on one corner.

One of mine did the same thing. It was the fan blade tapping against the shroud when really cold. After loosening, 3 years on it's still working perfectly (and silently).

 

[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.

Try loosening the metal fan shroud on one corner.

One of mine did the same thing. It was the fan blade tapping against the shroud when really cold. After loosening, 3 years on it's still working perfectly (and silently).

Hopefully that will work as I am ind of low on cash.