An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a small box that keeps your computers, servers, medical equipment, network devices, and other critical systems running. If you want it to do its job when you need it most, you must take care of it.
Unfortunately, many businesses make UPS maintenance mistakes that affect operations. At DC Group, we reveal these errors and the many ways you can avoid them.
Understanding UPS
A UPS is a backup power source that steps in when your normal electrical supply fails or becomes unstable. Instead of waiting for the power to come back on, the unit immediately draws energy from its stored power source, such as batteries, and supplies electricity to connected equipment.
There are several UPS configurations:
- Standby UPS: When supply fails or becomes unstable, the UPS switches to battery power. The battery provides DC power, which an inverter converts into AC power.
- Line-Interactive UPS: This type uses an automatic transformer to correct low- and high-voltage conditions.
- Online UPS: Incoming AC power is converted to DC power by a rectifier, then back to AC by an inverter before reaching the connected equipment.
- Multi-Mode UPS: During normal power conditions, the system can operate in a more efficient mode. When the incoming power becomes unstable, it can switch to double-conversion operation.
UPS systems are subject to technical and performance standards. EN 62040-3:2011, for example, covers single- or three-phase UPS equipment with AC output below 1,000 VAC and addresses equipment characteristics and performance classification.
It is best to speak with experienced uninterrupted power supply suppliers when determining what configuration, capacity, and features your facility actually needs.
The Most Common UPS Maintenance Mistakes
When a UPS fails, the problem is not always the unit itself. In many cases, poor maintenance is to blame. Here are four mistakes you might be making.
Neglecting Best Practices
Manufacturers regularly release firmware and software updates; skipping them may lead to performance vulnerabilities. Moreover, using extension cords or daisy-chaining power strips for the setup can contribute to voltage drops, overloads, and fire hazards.
Ignoring Routine Checks and Records
When you set and forget a UPS, many things can go wrong. When you notice them, it might be already too late to fix them. A battery or fan may lose capacity even without external signs, and connections may corrode.
Remember, all these issues do not happen overnight. They gradually develop, giving you many opportunities to catch or prevent them.
Disregarding Lifecycles
UPS batteries typically have a service life of three to five years. As they age, they lose their ability to hold and deliver a charge. Capacitors also have a limited lifespan of five to seven years.
If you wait until these components completely fail before replacing them, expect expensive repairs or replacements.
Mismanaging the Environment and Electrical Load
Where you install your UPS matters. A unit sitting in a hot, dusty, cramped room will have a harder time than one in a clean, well-ventilated environment.
Electrical load is another issue. Battery-backed outlets should be reserved for equipment that absolutely needs to stay online during an outage, while surge-only outlets are for equipment that needs protection from voltage spikes.
How To Avoid UPS Maintenance Mistakes
So, how do you build a practical maintenance routine? Here are four tips from DC Group.
Apply the Best Practices
Keeping your UPS system updated is one of the simplest things you can do. You should also perform the unit’s monthly self-test if the manufacturer recommends it.
Another important habit is avoiding questionable connections. Follow the manufacturer’s installation requirements and use the appropriate connections.
Finally, pay attention to technician reports. If an inspection identifies trouble, deal with it right away.
Be Diligent and Consistent
You do not have to be an electrical expert to see that something looks different. Keep an eye out for the following:
- Swollen batteries
- Corrosion
- Fluid leaks
- Damaged cables
- Unusual dust buildup
- Blocked ventilation openings
- Physical damage
Your UPS has its own way of communicating with you. Status lights, alarms, and error codes can provide useful information about the unit’s condition.
Moreover, track the following:
- Inspection dates
- Battery condition
- Self-test results
- Load-test results
- Repairs and replacements
- Technician recommendations
- Planned replacement dates
Be Proactive
A rule of thumb is to schedule battery replacement around every three years, or sooner in particularly hot environments. Terminals and connections should be checked regularly for corrosion and looseness. Charging matters, too, as both overcharging and undercharging can affect battery performance and lifespan.
Regular load testing is another useful part of a maintenance program. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to confirm that the batteries can actually provide the runtime your equipment requires.
Do not automatically replace batteries individually. Mixing new batteries with older, failing ones can create an imbalance, causing the newer batteries to perform poorly or fail prematurely.
Control External Factors
Pay attention to the room where your UPS lives. Maintain a room temperature of 68°F to 77°F and provide adequate clearance around the unit to ensure airflow. A minimum of six inches of clearance on all sides is a useful general guideline.
Also, it can be tempting to plug everything into the UPS. Before you do so, perform a power audit to select a unit with sufficient capacity and appropriate headroom.
Work With the Best UPS Company
UPS maintenance might not be the most exciting item on your to-do list, but it is a must. It helps you fight unexpected downtime, lost productivity, equipment damage, and high financial costs.
At DC Group, you can find a reliable UPS maintenance partner. You can turn to us for ongoing maintenance, system support, or a UPS repair service, and have one less thing to worry about. Call (800) 838-7927 or contact us online.