- 1Test functionality with multimeter or PSU tester - verify all voltage rails (12V, 5V, 3.3V)
- 2Clean dust buildup from vents and internal fan with compressed air (outside only)
- 3Bundle all cables together and label with voltage ratings and wattage
- 4Inspect for bulging/leaking capacitors, burnt components, or corrosion
- 5Check fan bearings - listen for grinding or rattling sounds
- 6Store in original box or anti-static bags with protective padding
- 7Separate modular cables and keep with the unit - increases value 20-30%
- 8Document model number, efficiency rating (80 Plus Bronze/Gold/Platinum), and age
- Electronics recycling centers specializing in computer components
- Scrap metal yards with copper/aluminum recovery capabilities
- Computer hardware resellers and refurbishment centers
- Best Buy e-waste programs (free drop-off)
- Municipal e-waste collection events
- Precious metal recovery facilities
- Local computer repair shops (often buy working units)
- University surplus/electronics disposal programs
Server-grade PSUs from mining operations often outlast consumer models due to higher build quality. Working units retain 30-50% of original value ($30-200) depending on wattage and efficiency rating. 80 Plus Platinum/Titanium models from quality brands (SeaSonic, EVGA, Corsair) command premium prices. Copper transformers make even broken PSUs valuable for recycling ($5-15 per unit). Many miners use server PSUs (HP, Dell 1200W-2400W) with breakout boards - these remain highly sought after. Before recycling, check used PSU prices on eBay/marketplace - functional mining PSUs sell quickly.
PSU recycling recovers substantial copper windings (1-3 pounds per unit worth $3-9), aluminum heatsinks (0.5-2 pounds), and circuit boards containing gold, silver, and palladium. Prevents toxic lead solder, cadmium from capacitors, and brominated flame retardants from contaminating landfills. Manufacturing one new PSU generates 40-60kg of CO2 emissions - reselling/recycling extends lifespan and reduces environmental impact by 70%. PSU recycling yields 95%+ material recovery rate, making it one of the most efficient e-waste recycling processes.
- Repurpose for high-end gaming builds (excellent value for power)
- Use for 3D printing farms or home server operations
- Power workstations or render farms (video editing, 3D modeling)
- Sell modular cable kits separately (high demand item)
- Combine multiple units for high-power projects (custom PCs, servers)
- Extract copper transformers for scrap metal recycling ($3-9/unit)
- Keep as backup PSU for troubleshooting PC issues
- Use in DIY electronics projects requiring stable DC power
- PSUs don't store user data - no data wipe necessary
- However, remove any custom labels with personal information
- Clear serial number stickers if concerned about warranty tracking
- Remove company asset tags or identification labels
- No firmware or configuration data stored in standard PSUs
Accepted
- Server PSUs: HP 1200W DPS-1200FB, Delta 2400W, IBM 2980W (highly sought)
- High-wattage desktop PSUs: 1000W-2000W 80 Plus Gold/Platinum/Titanium
- Mining-specific PSUs: Bitmain APW3/APW7, Parallel Miner, GPU PSUs
- Modular and non-modular power supplies with all cables
- Breakout boards for server PSUs ($10-30 value separately)
- PSU cables, PCIe power cables, and modular cable kits
- Non-functional units for parts recovery or scrap metal
- PSU testers and diagnostic tools
Not Accepted
- PSUs with damaged/exposed high-voltage wiring (safety hazard)
- Units with leaking/bulging capacitors (chemical hazard)
- PSUs containing liquid cooling components or fluid leaks
- Burned/fire-damaged units with structural damage
- Counterfeit or no-name brand PSUs (safety concerns)
Estimated value: Working server PSUs (1200W+): $50-150; High-end desktop PSUs (1000W+ Platinum): $80-200; Mid-range working units: $30-80; Breakout boards separately: $10-30; Non-functional scrap copper value: $5-15 per unit; Modular cable kits separately: $10-40
Donation
- Computer refurbishment nonprofits (working units)
- Vocational schools with electronics repair programs
- Maker spaces and community tech labs
- High-voltage capacitors (can retain charge weeks after unplugging - lethal)
- Lead-based solder throughout circuit boards
- Cadmium in older capacitors and transistors
- Brominated flame retardants in plastic casing
- PCB transformers may contain small amounts of mercury
- Beryllium copper in some electrical contacts
- NEVER open PSU casing unless qualified - lethal shock risk even unplugged
Are mining PSUs worn out from constant 24/7 use?
Counterintuitively, no! Quality PSUs rated for 24/7 operation actually last longer under constant load than variable gaming loads. Mining provides steady, predictable power draw at 70-80% capacity - ideal operating conditions. Temperature cycling from on/off use causes more component stress than constant operation. Server PSUs regularly run 5-7 years continuously. Check capacitors, fan, and efficiency - if these are good, the PSU likely has years left.
Can I recycle PSU cables and connectors separately?
Yes! Copper cables have scrap value ($0.10-0.30/lb) at metal recyclers. More valuable: sell modular cable kits separately to PC builders ($10-40 depending on brand). Branded cables (Corsair, EVGA) command premium prices. 24-pin motherboard cables, 8-pin CPU cables, and PCIe power cables sell well individually. Strip cheap cables for copper; sell quality modular cables intact.
What are server PSU breakout boards and why are they valuable?
Breakout boards convert 12V-only server PSUs (HP 1200W, Delta 2400W) into consumer-friendly power supplies with standard connectors. They're essential for miners using cheap, efficient server PSUs. Value: $10-30 depending on features (PCIe connectors, power switches, safety features). Popular models: X11 breakout board, ZSX adapter. Many miners need these - high resale demand. Original server PSU + breakout = $60-180 complete setup.
How do I test if a used PSU is still good?
Use a PSU tester ($10-20) to check all voltage rails: 12V, 5V, 3.3V should be within ±5% tolerance. Listen for fan noise (bearing wear). Check efficiency - if it runs hot at low loads, efficiency has degraded. Look for bulging capacitors (dome-shaped tops). Test under load with actual components if possible. Quality brands provide 5-10 year warranties - check remaining warranty. Red flags: burning smell, excessive heat, voltage fluctuations, loud fan grinding.
What PSU efficiency ratings matter for mining?
80 Plus efficiency ratings indicate power loss as heat: Bronze (85%), Silver (88%), Gold (90%), Platinum (92%), Titanium (94%). For 24/7 mining, higher efficiency = significant electricity savings. Example: 1200W PSU at 80% load (960W draw) over a year: Bronze wastes $130, Platinum wastes $70 in electricity (assuming $0.12/kWh). Platinum/Titanium PSUs pay for themselves in 1-2 years of continuous use. Look for 80 Plus Platinum minimum for profitable mining.
Can I use a mining PSU for regular gaming PCs?
Absolutely! Mining PSUs are often premium units (80 Plus Platinum/Titanium) sold at discount because miners upgrade frequently. Benefits: 1) Tested under extreme loads, 2) Often barely utilized (miners run 70-80% capacity), 3) Usually 1-3 years old with 7-10 year warranties remaining, 4) Half the price of new. Verify: voltage stability with tester, fan works, no capacitor bulge, original cables included. Mining PSUs are excellent gaming PC components - better deal than retail.