Bad Computer Power Supply Symptoms

Computer power supplies commonly malfunction or burn out when overstressed. Knowing the warning signs of a bad power supply will help you get to the bottom of any problems you have with your computer.

Heat

Power supplies produce a large amount of heat, which is normally reduced by fans and heat sinks. If the fans on the power supply are dead, or the supply burns to touch, the power supply is probably on the verge of burning out.

Smell

If you smell burning or see smoke coming from your computer, the power supply might be bad.

Power Delivery

If your motherboard, hard drives and case fans do not start up when you turn on the power switch, the power supply could be dead.

Crashing

If you experience constant crashing or blue screens, it could indicate that your power supply is heating up too much as you use the computer.

Noise

If a power supply is overstressed, it may make strange noises, like buzzing. Also the fan may be loud if it is clogged or on the verge of failure.

Resources

• Troubleshooting flow chart for power supplies