Keep using old PSU?

[juane414]

I've done some research online and I think the I know what I'm going to end up doing, but I have a question that might make for an interesting discussion.

Should I keep using my PSU in a new build?

So, here's the context:
I'm planning to build a new system at the end of this year once AMD's Zen 3 CPUs and "Big Navi" GPUs are out. I'll be looking to keep the budget as low as possible. I may even pass on the new GPUs and go with a discounted 5600XT. I'll probably choose a B550 over the new 600 series motherboards. I also plan to re-use my Cooler Master CM 690 II Advanced case.

I'm wondering, is it worth shaving down the cost a bit more by using my NZXT Hale82 750w power supply?

Normally, I wouldn't even consider using a 7 year old power supply in a new build, but I'm wondering if it's worth the risk in this case for two reasons. A) My current PSU has never been worked that hard. It's only ever had a 100w GPU and 125W CPU, with few drives and fans, etc. B) My new build will probably be about the same in terms of power consumption. The GPU will probably use a little more power, but the CPU will use less compared to my current build. My understanding is that PSUs don't wear out as quickly if they are used well below max output, which seems to be my situation. That has me wondering if my PSU still has some life left.

 

[EarthDog]

If it is working properly and has all the connectors you need, I wouldn't hesitate to use continue using it. IIRC, that is a Seasonic part with NZXT badging so it's a solid unit. It has most/all the protections of modern PSUs so you should be set. Even if you ran that thing at 500W instead I'd still run it.

Make sure you post some pics of all the new goodies!

 

[juane414]

Thanks for the input! I always do a lot of research when I buy new parts, and I made sure to get a good PSU last time. It was overkill for my build, but it was a great price.

 

[SPL Tech]

I had a Corsair PSU that I kept for 10 years. I reused it for four builds. For almost a year straight it was on 24/7 because I was GPU mining. So yea, if it still works then why not?

 

[juane414]

I had a Corsair PSU that I kept for 10 years. I reused it for four builds. For almost a year straight it was on 24/7 because I was GPU mining. So yea, if it still works then why not?

Thanks for the input. Why did you decide to stop using it after 10 years? Did it begin showing signs of wear? Did you need something more powerful for your new build?

 

[SPL Tech]

Thanks for the input. Why did you decide to stop using it after 10 years? Did it begin showing signs of wear? Did you need something more powerful for your new build?

It was not modular and I dident want to have to coil up a ton of wires in my new build. Also, I wanted an intelligent PSU that I can monitor, and I thought I bought one but I dident realize until I got it that what I needed was the AX860i and not the AX860. Oh well.