Should I replace my PSU?

G80FTW

Active Member
So, my Antec Earthwatts 650 has been serving me for almost the past 10 years now. Iv been looking for a while now at different power supplies to replace it, but havent really found anything I like. Ontop of that, now Im kind of afraid to replace it as its lasted so long without issues.

This thing has been through 3 builds, all run pretty much 24/7. The only time I turn my computer off is to clean, or if I know I am going to be away from the house for a few days.

My current build I have had since 2012, and I already have to replace the case fans, although Im not sure how high quality those were to begin with.

Should I replace my PSU if it isnt broken? I would like to get something newer and more power efficient but now Im afraid of the new one not lasting as long as this one.
 

johnb35

Administrator
Staff member
At this point, you are lucky you got 10 years out of it. I wouldn't chance it any longer, buy a new one.
 

Darren

Moderator
Staff member
I would in your position, 10 years is a long time for a PSU. In terms of longevity just make sure you get a good unit and it should last you. Even the cheap-ish CX600's I put in several friends builds ~4 years ago are kicking along fine with zero issues out of any of them. Kinda luck of the draw after a while though.
 

Intel_man

VIP Member
I'm on my 6th year going on 7th year soon on my HX650.

I've also got an old HP computer with a swapped coolermaster 500W PSU on it's 8th year going on 9th and is still working. Granted, I don't really stress it much, but a PSU on it's 10th year could be a good time to get it replaced.
 

beers

Moderator
Staff member
Depends on the PSU I think. This EVGA 1600G2 came with a 10 year warranty, so some of them are designed for the long haul. Also, clearly, some old ass PCs still operate OK with their stock one from decades ago.

Depending on how much power you draw on average could offset the upgrade difference over a similar 6-7 year haul by going with a gold/platinum unit instead. Since your build isn't exactly new I'd probably ride it out and buy a new one for when you finally platform upgrade.
 

Okedokey

Well-Known Member
That unit's MTBF is over 100,000 hours. Currently you're at around 87,360 hours assuming it is on all the time. I would say you have another 1.5 years before you're in the average fail zone. I'd wait a year.
 

Laquer Head

Well-Known Member
Speaking as someone who used a PC Power & Cooling for a little over 9 years, I know its tough to consider switching/replacing but I'd recommend you step into something new.

We've both beat the odds and got a ton of life out of solid PSU, but I'm glad I upgraded.
 

mistersprinkles

Active Member

I see your excellent powersupply and raise you one ultimate power supply.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817438057&cm_re=evga_p2-_-17-438-057-_-Product

If he's going to be running it for 10 years (which a P2 should handle no sweat) he'll accrue a lot of $$ savings on his power bill with a platinum/titanium rated PSU vs gold.

Just while we're on the subject, a battery backup UPS with built in surge protection is good to have on any system. Puts less stress on the PSU from surges which happen even on the best power grids. Except maybe in Japan.
 

Intel_man

VIP Member
If he's going to be running it for 10 years (which a P2 should handle no sweat) he'll accrue a lot of $$ savings on his power bill with a platinum/titanium rated PSU vs gold.
It really depends on his typical power consumption and where it lies on the efficiency curve.
 

Okedokey

Well-Known Member
The ROI on platinum etc almost never works out in your favour unless you a. as mentioned above operate in the least efficient area of the curve or b. pay a very high tariff for electricity.
 

mistersprinkles

Active Member
The ROI on platinum etc almost never works out in your favour unless you a. as mentioned above operate in the least efficient area of the curve or b. pay a very high tariff for electricity.
I live in Ontario. We pay the highest electric bill rates in all of North America. Any little bit helps. Look up our electric rates. You'll laugh (we cry).
 

Intel_man

VIP Member
I live in Ontario. We pay the highest electric bill rates in all of North America
No you don't... That graph is from Ontario Hydro as well.

$graph
 
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