Is it better to leave the computer running 24/7 or turn it off at night? I've heard it puts more wear on the hard drive the more you re-boot?

 

Yes, you generate more wear starting/stopping the system and not just on the drives. I don't think its enough wear to outweigh the addition to most people's electric bill though.

Frankly, unless you use your computer enough to warrant powering it up everday, I wouldn't leave it running.

 

This question has been debated for decades. I agree with Jerry though.

 

Electric bill? When your computer is at idle it uses as much electricity as a night lamp.


I leave mine on all night, but lately it's been too loud (3 fans) so I've been shutting it off.

-Matt

 

i always leave mine on. when it's cold a room of computers makes a great space heater.

 

I think your computer will become obsolete before you experience any effects of this supposed increased wear and tear. It doesn't matter.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by foolio
[B]I think your computer will become obsolete before you experience any effects of this supposed increased wear and tear.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by foolio
[B]I think your computer will become obsolete before you experience any effects of this supposed increased wear and tear.

 

I have 4 computers (including two laptops) here running 24/7. Electricity is a moot point really. They don't use much. I have run previous network computers continuously for up to 6-7 years without any reliability problems. I let things like monitors power down but leave hard drives running continuously as someone is always using the network. As others have pointed out they're obsolete in a few years so hardly worth worrying about.

 

Some cost calculations in case you're curious: