Thread: PC Burning Problem

Recently there has been a burning smell coming out of my computer. I have checked the system temperatures and fan control settings and they seem to be fine. I am unable to detect any cause of the burning smell. Please help!

you need to act fast on this problem. Usually a burning smell from a computer is not common, but a serious issue. There could be several reasons for the burning smell

~ Firstly switch-off all the power to the computer and unplug the main power cable. Use your sense of smell to locate and zero-in on the exact location of the burning smell. Inspect the area thoroughly for any burnt indications. At times a new power supply unit (usually a lower quality brand) heats up fast and the varnish coating smells as though it is burning.

~ The power supply unit (which is the high voltage area inside a computer cabinet) is always dusty from the inside. Higher moisture levels in the atmosphere during the rainy season make the dust moist or damp. This creates sparks and short circuits inside the power supply unit. Something might be slowly burning inside due to higher heat levels as the damp or moist dust becomes a good conductor of electricity. You should inspect the power supply from inside and clean out the dust after completely drying the interior of the unit. Make sure that"the power supply is drained of power completely and then handle it as there are high voltages stored inside the power supply unit even if the unit is not powered. Ask an expert to handle the problem if you are not confident enough and avoid any risk.

~ The similar problem of dust may be possible on the other peripherals such as the motherboard, cards and the memory chips. Make sure you clean the complete cabinet and peripherals inside the case.

~ The possibility of a damaged power connector or wire from the power supply to the motherboard, hard drive or optical drive could be burning or over-heating. If the cable is damaged or weakly/loosely connected, this causes very high power to pass through a tiny connection causing overheating or even sparking and burning. The outer plastic/rubber insulation of the cables could be melting and causing the burning smell. Inspect every cable and connector inside the cabinet carefully.

~ The external power cable from the wall unit to the power supply could be sparking due to a carbon deposit on the connectors. Have these connections inspected.

~ Check the monitor for any smell of burning. It could be the similar condition as of the power supply unit.

~ Ensure that the computer is not kept near a window or in a room that has an air conditioner running on extremely low temperatures especially during the rainy season.