Do PSUs need replacing over time?

Nuclear Fusion · 2025-03-01T11:26:26+0000

Might be a silly question but is there a general time limit you'd give for using a PSU before replacing it? It occurred to me that my AX860 is over 10 years old now, while it's a good quality unit and doesn't seem to have any issues, it did get me wondering if there's a risk to other components as time goes on (especially if I upgrade my GPU). Thoughts?

edGfaCTor · 2025-03-01T11:54:50+0000

No if it is a good quality unit it should last decades.

Most of the time the issue ends up being the fan.

The downside of very old PSU to modern tech may be the connections types and other specs.

Tetras · 2025-03-01T12:15:40+0000

If you're using it with an old PC, no, but I'd buy a new one if I was buying an expensive new PC.

Nuclear Fusion · 2025-03-01T12:39:40+0000

OK, sounds like I'm all good for now then at least- thanks!

tamzzy · 2025-03-01T13:10:22+0000

Tetras said:
If you're using it with an old PC, no, but I'd buy a new one if I was buying an expensive new PC.

this

Firegod · 2025-03-01T13:29:07+0000

Nuclear Fusion said:
Might be a silly question but is there a general time limit you'd give for using a PSU before replacing it? It occurred to me that my AX860 is over 10 years old now, while it's a good quality unit and doesn't seem to have any issues, it did get me wondering if there's a risk to other components as time goes on (especially if I upgrade my GPU). Thoughts?

If you do come to upgrade your GPU then yes, I'd upgrade an old PSU such as yours. As mentioned above, your going to benefit from new connections, specifications and standards. And, you'll get a shiny new 10-12 year warranty.