Power Supply Fan

The fan on my power supply is now getting annoying. Its about 3 years old now and every 30 to 60 seconds or so it makes a really loud grinding sound. Rather than go right out and buy a new power supply, i was wondering if it is possible to just replace it with say a normal 80mm case fan, or are 80mm power supply fans entirely different?

Yes, it's possible. A bit dangerous, but possible (as I do the complete opposite to broken PSU's) . Sounds like the bearings are going out. Just get a regular 12V 80mm fan and you're fine. I'd get a high CFM one though. Might want to clean out the dust in the PSU while you're at it.

Why would it be dangerous to replace the fan in my PSU?

the insides of the psu isn't so nice to look at...the danger lies when you tingle on the components inside the psu that could cause possible damage to the psu itself, and will result to electrical shock, or even worse burn-ins...you better get a new psu instead...

Keep in mind that a lot of PSUs don't have simple plug in fans - they're soldered directly to the PCB. In order to replace one, you'd need to either solder in the new fan, or splice some wires.



I'd suggest you replace the PSU.

alrighty, well i guess im just going to buy a new power supply, i found a few that looked good for less than $30, i appreciate all the input everyone has given me, thanks.