Power Supply Lifespan

[DSF]

I'm planning on a fresh build around December of this year.

I currently have a Corsair HX520 that's been powering a pretty standard gaming rig.

E4500 with a mild OC
GTX460 (upgraded from 8800GT)
1 HDD
A couple fans

The PSU's 5-year warranty will run out right around the time I plan to build the new machine. I've heard both sides of the reusing a PSU argument. The new machine is likely to be a midrange gaming machine just like the last one. Mild OC on a mid-level or budget chip, mid-range gaming card, 1 HDD.

Should I feel comfortable continuing to use the Corsair or should I plan on buying a new PSU for the new machine? Or should I split the difference and use the Corsair for a while, and then replace it when I, say, upgrade the video card down the road.

 

[aaksheytalwar]

I am running a antec neohe 500 since 2006/2007 and it is still going strong

 

[VirtualLarry]

You would think that major brand PSUs would be designed, such that they would have ample capacity, to maintain the rated power, over the lifespan of the warranty.

So you should be good to re-use it, but be aware that the caps and other things will degrade capacity over time.

If you get some new super-duper video card that pulls a lot of power, and/or you decide to overclock to the sky, then I might replace it at that time.

 

[7earitup]

As long as the PSU has enough power for what you are wanting to build, keep it. When I used to build new rigs on a consistent basis, one PSU would usually last through two machines unless something popped in it.

 

[evident]

i've been using my seasonic s12 650 since 2006 and i havent had any problems. although i don't run dual video cards or anything crazy either.

 

[thecoolnessrune]

Still have a Seasonic S12 420 powering our file server since 2005 / 2006 pretty much 24/7 and no issues at all.

 

[Zorander]

Quite a long time judging by the Antec TruePower 430W in my parents' 2005 build.

 

[Kanalua]

You'll be fine.

 

[pandemonium]

As long as the PSU is sufficient for the watt rating you'll need, continue to use it. If it were an unrated PSU from say, 1992, then I'd say you probably need to get a new one.

 

[philipma1957]

... Or should I split the difference and use the Corsair for a while, and then replace it when I, say, upgrade the video card down the road.

This and wait for a good psu deal. for at least 660 or 750 watts at a good price

 

[DSF]

This and wait for a good psu deal. for at least 660 or 750 watts at a good price

Nah, I won't need 750 Watts for what I do, especially with the current trend towards lower-power video cards.

But thanks for the advice everyone.

 

[jacktesterson]

You're fine.

I've got a Antec True Power (maybe smart power, forget) kickin around from 2004 era that is still powering a X3 Athlon system no issues at all. Its on 24/7 and has been almost the entire time since new.

 

[ZMX]

I had an Antec Truepower last 6 months, and then I had an Antec Truepower Trio last about 5 years.