Should you switch off PSU before Switching off mains?

[bradwiggo]

Every night I shut down my computer and then turn off the wall socket. Is this safe? Should I be tuning off the PSU before turning off the wall socket, or is this not necessary? There is no particular reason I do this, ever since I got my computer (December) I have just done it every night. 

[Constantin]

You really do not need to unplug the wall socket

[NunoLava1998]

Just now, Constantin said:

You really do not need to unplug the wall socket

Some stupid PSUs absolutely ignore that though and still keep some electricity flowing

EDIT: nvm this isnt for building/upgrading/whateverthefuck the pc, wtf?

[bradwiggo]

59 minutes ago, Constantin said:

You really do not need to unplug the wall socket

Aye I know I do it without thinking about it now, is it bad for the PSU to do it? As if it is I'll stop. 

[Guest]

Repeated in-rush circuit can eventually damage a PSU.

 

When you "turn off" the PC from the OS, the PSU is still in standby.  The bulk cap is still fully charged.  When you flip the switch on the back of the PSU or from the wall outlet, +5VSB to the motherboard is cut and the bulk cap slowly discharges.  Then, when you turn the power back on, the bulk cap has to fully charge before the PSU can work again.  This "rush" of power is called "inrush current".  There are things in place to prevent inrush from damaging pretty much every PSU out there, but REPEATED inrush current will eventually shorten the life of the PSU.

 

[SenKa]

@jonnyGURU's word is scripture when it comes to anything PSU related. So yeah, what he said.