PSU Wattage

[gtsing]

Let's say I have a 750W power supply but my computer doesn't necessarily need all of it. Would getting a 600W or even a 500W power supply save me money on my electricity bills? Does a 750W power supply use ALL 750W even although it is not needed? Thanks for any replies.

 

[jonnyGURU]

Absolutely not.

A PSU only puts out what's demanded of it and therefore only takes from the wall what AC power it needs to create the DC power.

 

[DSF]

The PSU only draws what it needs to power the system, it doesn't draw its maximum capacity. However, putting too small a load on the PSU can make it operate at a lower efficiency. Most of the time this isn't too much of a concern, but if you buy a 1000W PSU to power a computer that only draws 100W, you're probably wasting energy.

 

[gtsing]

Thanks for the replies - they help a lot. So, downgrading to a lower watt power supply is probably not going to help my bill?

 

[bruceb]

No it will not help your electric bill. If you need to save, turn off
things like lamps, tv when not watching it, shut your pc monitor
when you are away from it for several minutes and in a lot of cases
things like cell phone chargers that stay plugged in when not in use
can draw some current and as such, run up the bill slightly. Try to put
them on a switched power strip. More energy efficient lighting can help
also. Such as halogen bulbs or if you like them, flourescents that fit in
a regular Edison Base socket.

 

[jonnyGURU]

Originally posted by: gtsing
Thanks for the replies - they help a lot. So, downgrading to a lower watt power supply is probably not going to help my bill?

Not at all.

And even if the 750W is one of the most inefficient and the 600W is one of the most efficient, you would have to run the PC 24/7 for about five years to recoup your costs.

Buying the most efficient PSU possible when you have to buy a PSU (upgrade or new build, etc.) is wise. But upgrading a PSU just to get one that's more efficient is not... unless you're some kind of tree hugger. 😉

 

[gtsing]

Thanks for the prompt replies everyone, this helps greatly.

 

[nefariouscaine]

but in either case make sure unit is of high quality & provides consistent stable power

 

[bob8701]

it depends on the psu efficency rating, most psu has best efficencly between 25% to 75% loading. So I always select a psu has twice power rate as you pc power requirement.

 

[Yellowbeard]

Originally posted by: jonnyGURU But upgrading a PSU just to get one that's more efficient is not... unless you're some kind of tree hugger. 😉

LMAO....

Actually, installing a couple of flourescent bulbs around the home in frequently used sockets will save a lot more power than trying to buy a different PSU.

 

[Modelworks]

http://www.powerhousetv.com/st...ub/phtv_se_000498.hcsp

The things on that list will save much more.