Higher Pitched Noise coming from power supply?

[BlueAcolyte]

Recently, I dusted out my computer using compressed air. I also pointed some into the power supply fan and through vents on the front and back. I also moved a fan from the bottom of my case to the side, but I do not believe this had any effect. When my computer is on, I hear a noise that wasn't there before.

The noise is slightly higher pitched than anything else in my case and seems to be coming from the back lower corner. When I listen more closely it sounds like the fan is running faster inside the power supply or SOME fan is running faster (I stopped a few and the noise didn't go away). The air coming out of the back of the power supply is still cool.

Should I be really worried? It's not so loud I can't distinguish other noises like the GPU fan (50%).

Case CM 690, 2 Antec Tricools on low, CM hyperTX2 CPU cooler, Sapphire HD 4870, 2 120mm CM fans that came with case. 1 Samsung HDD.

 

[bloodugly]

How high of a pitch are we talking about? If its really high pitched, it could be coils. Had that problem on a MB once before, didn't notice it until I got the PC down to near silence. Some non-acetic acid silicone rubber took care of that. Coils in a PSU can also make that sound.

 

[mpilchfamily]

There is also a chance that its just a peice of dust stuck between the fan and the Heaqtsink of either the CPU or GPU and thats whats making the noise. I've had this happen after cleaning out the system. So a check of the coolers would be a good idea. If that isn't it then it may be electronic in nature.

 

[Fallen Kell]

As others have already asked, it is really about how high a pitch you are talking about. Something in the 10+KHz range will usually mean capacitors or coils...

 

[BlueAcolyte]

Mmm, I shouldn't have said high-pitched then. I was just wondering if I had damaged the fan inside or something.

 

[bloodugly]

You could always pop open the PSU to investigate the fan. Of course, if it's under warranty it might not be worth it to you. If its a pretty noticeable sound, you might be able to get a replacement. Replacing a PSU fan isn't hard if you decide you want to do that yourself.

 

[BlueAcolyte]

I think I'll just let things lie... Thanks guys. It still works, at least.

 

[bloodugly]

You're welcome, and best of luck with it.