Power Supply fan noise and what I should do if anything.

[wumply]

I'd appreciate opinions on the following. Do SI replace the fan or not.

Computer is 2 years old, working fine. What I notice is this. Room temperature is around 68 most mornings when I turn the computer on and boot. Prior to 2 weeks ago, I would only hear the slight sound of air being moved. But since that time, it has been somewhat more noisy for 3-4 minutes when I boot after which it returns to its normal air-moving-only sound. It isn't an alarming noise by any means. I suspect it's sort of like some bearing warms up and expands a fraction from the heat of friction or of the power suipply transformer. So the fan turns with decreased noise and vibration and operates quietly all day.

My question is need I take any corrective faction and if so, what?

[z3n]

As long as your CPU is'nt cooking and the fan is keeping things cool, it's not really an issue.
Be sure to check that the fan does in fact continue to work when the noise stops.

Possible cause:
Over time (two years will do it :) ) dust and other gunk can clog the fan up a bit and cause a black jammy residue. This of course can be cleaned if you're comfortable with opening your box up and carefully cleaning it out, (with the power off and unplugged) using a static and moisture free cloth or brush.
This will improve your fans effectivness and hopefully reduce its noise.

[rik]

I would say not at this point. But be sure and monitor the system for unusual sounds/smells etc.

[cash_site]

Good Tips Zen and Rik, they are leading you in the right direction. Also, to be on the safe side, get a backup plan in place, ie create Image or Backup to CD/DVD etc

Just keep and eye... err or ear on the noise.

[zipp51]

I would say not at this point. But be sure and monitor the system for unusual sounds/smells etc.

In addition to Rik's suggestion,you should watch for startup and shutdown glitches and problems. :D

[wumply]

Computers! I love them but they are also the bane of my existence. Why? Well, this morning the reason is that with the same ambient temp in my house as yesterday, my power supply fan was as quiet as a mouse from the moment I booted. Weird! But very nice! A "Go Figure" Let's hope it lasts.

Thanks for everyone's input!!

wumply

[wumply]

And, oh yes, I dint do nuthin'!!!

[Reverend]

Moved to "Hardware".

Please post threads in the appropriate forum. Thanks.