Avoiding damage to my computer – power problems
Avoiding damage to my computer – power problems
I recently assisted a friend in assembling a PC mainly for illustration and VR purposes. He’s quite skilled. It turns out he resides in an older home where the electrical outlets aren’t properly grounded. He purchased a UPS unit, but it causes all lights to shut off intermittently—sometimes without immediate effect, other times at random intervals. Still, the system functioned normally when connected directly to the wall for about two months. Recently, while trying to connect a USB-C cable, he accidentally touched the I/O shield, resulting in a brief electrical discharge and the computer shutting down. When he attempted to restart it, the fans began spinning but then stopped instantly. A technician visited and confirmed the graphics card is dead, leaving uncertainty about the motherboard’s condition. As we wait for a fix, we’re seeking alternatives to ensure the PC operates correctly in that space. The location is rented, and the landlord isn’t available to intervene. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!... PS. My English is still developing, so please understand if it comes across as unclear...
Recruit a licensed electrician. Otherwise, any attempt could endanger lives in case of a fire.
Caroline mentioned possible legal steps you could take. Review local fire and electrical codes, and consult a licensed electrician for guidance. They might need to perform a partial upgrade. The UPS might be drawing power too quickly, causing random failures. It could switch from mains to battery due to unstable mains power. If touching the shield caused a discharge, there’s likely an electrical fault somewhere in the house. Grounding won’t solve it and might worsen the problem. Damage to electronics could also open a legal path—your rental insurance may cover repairs or replacements, and they might help the property owner address the issue.