Issue with PSU fan on Enermax EGN1200P power supply unit
Issue with PSU fan on Enermax EGN1200P power supply unit
Hi guys, i have the following issue.
About a day ago, I got a brand new power supply unit, model Enermax EGN1200P.
Everything is working properly, but the PSU behaves oddly. The fan begins to start every 30-60 seconds. It starts slowly at first, then moves abruptly with a ticking sound, and then spins for about 5 seconds before stopping again. This cycle repeats every 1.5 to 2 minutes. It shouldn't even start under less than 60% load, and my PC is idle. Is this a problem or can I fix it? Thanks in advance.
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ardLezvvms0
The unit includes an Enermax D.F.R. feature where toggling the D.F. button at the back causes the fan to run for 20 seconds normally, then pause and spin backward for another 20 seconds. This setup aims to keep the fan or PSU free of dust. More details can be found by scrolling down to the product page; specifications are available at the provided link. If your PSU fan behaves unpredictably, consider reaching out to Enermax directly to investigate potential issues with the D.F.R. function. Also, check if there are differences when the D.F. switch is on versus off.
Thanks for the quick reply. The cleaning process occurs each time you power on the PC. It spins very fast and loud in both directions before stopping. The switch at the back of the PSU functions like a mechanical switch, and when pressed, it repeats that cleaning routine automatically. It seems impossible to disable this feature entirely. I believe they designed it this way since they market it for workstations, allowing you to run the cleaning without turning off the PC.
In my opinion, it's just a superficial tactic. More likely a sales push aimed at boosting sales figures. And it seems intended to increase the PSU's cost. Since the PSU fan remains completely still until the PSU reaches 60% load, dust cannot enter the unit. If there are issues with dust inside, one should assess their overall cleanliness, as the PC itself will then be filled with debris. For server environments, these PSUs are notably noisy and are seldom shut down specifically for dust removal; instead, the surrounding area is maintained clean to prevent dust from entering the system altogether. For home users, cleaning the PC and its internal components, including the PSU, with compressed air just 1-2 times a year is quite straightforward.
That's correct, though it's fair to say I didn't even check that function when picking this PSU. My main focus was on energy efficiency (Platinum) and getting a reliable, quiet, and modern unit with some extra capacity for future upgrades, especially if I decide to switch to Nvidia later.
I have everything except the silent part. XD
I've already contacted Enermax, but I'm pretty sure this PSU shouldn't behave that way.
If so, then why choose Enermax?
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Seasonic stands out as one of the few with the best efficiency, boasting PRIME TX ATX 3 which achieves over 80% efficiency, available in either a 1.3kW or 1.6kW model. Details can be found here: https://seasonic.com/atx3-prime-tx/
However, if you aim for maximum power consumption, consider the PRIME PX ATX 3 (80+ Platinum) at 2.2kW, with specifications available at: https://seasonic.com/atx3-prime-px-2200/
Please note that in the USA, standard wall sockets typically support 15A circuits, limiting power to around 1800W. A 2200W unit would pose a significant risk, potentially damaging wiring or even igniting the house.
In Europe, Schuko sockets are rated for 16A, allowing up to 3840W, giving ample capacity for a 2200W device.
I personally use two PRIME TX-650 units (80+ Titanium) across two PCs, and they operate perfectly without any noise. My oldest PRIME unit is nearly 8 years old yet still performing well. It also comes with a 12-year warranty, highlighting its durability.
My third PC runs the Seasonic Focus PX-550 (80+ Platinum), which has a decade-long warranty.
If you're interested, I can share the full specifications and images in my profile.
I've planned a budget of about 300 euros for myself, but I'll check it later. And please keep it quiet! Is the Dark Power Pro 13 1300W PSU reliable?
Be Quiet! models typically come with a premium price yet remain competitive with other brands. Additionally, they produce significant noise, reaching up to 55 dB(A) when operating at 900W or more.
In the category of 1.25kW power supplies and above, Seasonic products dominate the market. There are also some Corsair models, a few Super Flower units, and even one Enermax unit, though it doesn't belong to the same series as yours.
For those seeking the quietest options, Seasonic units consistently rank among the top two. The PRIME TX-1300 averages around 11.55 dB(A), which is notably quieter than the whisper level of about 17 dB(A). At 1100W or higher, it reaches approximately 19 dB(A), making it extremely silent compared to the 55 dB(A) of the Dark Power Pro 13.
The PRIME TX-1600 averages 21.12 dB(A), remaining quite quiet. When the load exceeds 1400W, it peaks at 24 dB(A), still significantly quieter than the Be Quiet! unit.
Your Enermax model scores 33.92 on average, which is considerably louder than Seasonic units. At loads above 1000W, it generates around 40 dB(A) of noise—less than the Be Quiet! unit but still quite high.
For more detailed insights, consider reputable reviews such as those from HardwareBusters, including the PRIME TX-1300 and PRIME TX-1600 analyses, as well as the Enermax PlatiGemini 1200W review.
Reading these reviews helps determine the quality of a PSU, with maximum noise levels clearly indicated in the assessments.
The problem with Seasonics is that my setup only supports PSU units up to 200mm, but the Seasonic model I have is 210mm. I've confirmed it won't fit. Concerning noise, I believe the tests you're referring to are hot tests at about 45°C. I was surprised at first, but then I saw that all PSUs perform much better in those conditions on their site. The cold test results are significantly better or comparable to other units. I've looked into reviews and most people say this PSU is very quiet. What concerns me more is the new ATX 3.1 power cable standard—does it work backwards, and can I still use new graphics cards with older CPUs?
In this scenario, the NZXT C1500 at 180mm length is considered. The review highlights its quiet performance among PSUs, ranking third in quietness. It operates as a 3.1kW unit with 80+ Titanium efficiency and ATX 3.1. Laboratory tests confirm its effectiveness, while hot box evaluations provide accurate results. Cold box tests are also available but simulate ideal conditions with little temperature variation. Generally, testing PSUs only under 100W or reduced load confirms their reliability. However, actual performance at full capacity reveals whether the unit can sustain higher demands. The review emphasizes listening closely to real-world usage for a complete assessment.