More and more businesses are relying on UPS systems to protect themselves in the event of power issues like surges or outages, but in the event of problems with the system itself, is it better to replace the whole thing or just the battery?
This article will take a look at the factors affecting performance and help you make the right decision for your business.
Understanding the factors affecting UPS performance
The first step is to get to grips with the different issues that can cause your UPS system to fail. Proper maintenance and servicing of your UPS system is essential to both prevent any issues occurring, and properly react when they do.
Importance of UPS performance for uninterrupted power protection
More and more businesses depend on their computer systems to function, and these systems are often always running. When there is an issue with the mains power, even with a backup generator there will be time without power where data can be at risk, programs compromised, and (in worst case scenarios) potential loss of life.
Your UPS, or uninterruptible power supply, is there to ensure that this never happens. However, it must perform to the correct levels if it is to work, and there are many factors that impact its success.
Common factors that affect UPS performance and lifespan
There are several main factors that affect UPS performance and lifespan, including:
- Variation in temperature – in general, batteries should be kept at around 20 degrees at all times. Increasing the temperature just 10 degrees can halve your battery life and therefore impact performance.
- Storage – your UPS battery will lose capacity over time as it is stored and needs regular maintenance to keep it at full capacity.
- Under- or over-charging – again your service provider will carefully monitor your batteries to make sure they are working as they should be and receiving the right care.
Evaluating UPS battery replacement
If you are thinking about replacing your UPS battery, it is important to know if it actually needs replacing or if there is another issue going on.
Signs that your UPS battery needs replacement
There are several key signs that your UPS battery needs replacing, including:
- Reduced running time – if your company requires a UPS that runs for 10 minutes and it used to meet those standards but has now slipped down to shorter periods than that is a clear sign that your battery could need changing.
- Chassis damage – if the chassis is bulging or damaged then it is crucial that you take steps to have the battery replaced.
- It is 3-5 years old (or more) – some batteries will have varied lifespans, but in general they will need replacing roughly this often.
- If the system fails to keep the power on – as a UPS system it should obviously keep working in the event of a power cut or similar, so if it doesn’t work it could be an issue with the battery.
Benefits of replacing UPS batteries
If you do replace your UPS batteries you can regain your system’s longer running time, bring a new lease of life to your existing system and gain peace of mind knowing that your new battery should be good for 3-5 years more with regular maintenance checks.
Factors to consider when replacing UPS batteries
You should ideally wait to replace your battery when your UPS system notifies you that it is time through an alarm or notification, or your service provider indicates that it is time. If the issue is in the temperature or storage then a new battery won’t fix the issue by itself but will need to be maintained properly.
Considering UPS replacement
If you are considering replacing your UPS system entirely then you should make sure that it is necessary and that the pros outweigh the cons. Firstly, check that your system does actually need to be replaced.
Signs that your UPS system needs replacement
The key signs that your UPS system needs replacing include:
- It is more than 5 – 13 years old – the exact lifespan will vary from manufacturer, however, after 5 years your system may be due to be replaced (again, depending on usage, how well the device was maintained, and which manufacturer you chose).
- You have recurring battery issues – if changing the battery doesn’t help there may be other issues in the system itself.
- It fails to maintain power – again the function of a UPS is to keep the power on, so if it is not working it could be time to replace the whole system.
- Your service provider says so.
Benefits of replacing your UPS system
There are a number of benefits to replacing your system including the advancements in the newer systems that can save energy and money in the long run. Most importantly, if you keep running the same old system it will eventually fail and that can be catastrophic to many businesses. Replacing your system at the right time can save you from that eventuality.
Factors to consider when replacing your UPS system
It is important to consider whether your whole system really needs replacing; the best time to do so for minimal disruption and risk in the event of a power failure; and whether this is the perfect opportunity to upgrade and save money in the future.
Making the right decision
When you are deciding whether you should replace your UPS battery or the whole system, there are a number of factors and circumstances that can impact your decision…
Weighing the pros and cons of UPS battery replacement vs. UPS replacement
If your UPS system is only a couple of years old, replacing it could be an unnecessary expense and interruption when simply changing the battery could solve your issues.
Changing your UPS battery is the answer to so many problems and is far cheaper and easier than the alternative.
If the issue lies elsewhere in the system replacing the battery can be a waste of time when it is the system that needs changing. When in doubt, call the experts for a second opinion.
Considering cost, performance, and reliability
You may also find that replacing your whole system now can be the more cost effective solution in the long run, giving you a more efficient UPS that performs better and saves energy. It is essential that your system performs correctly and that you can rely on it to work, and that guarantee can be worth the extra expense.
Consulting with UPS experts for professional advice
An experienced and high quality company like UPS Solutions will be there to service and maintain your system and let you know when it is time to replace your UPS battery, and when indeed the system itself needs to be changed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UPS battery and UPS replacement
How often should I replace my UPS battery?
You should only need to replace your battery around every 3 years, but make sure that you keep an eye out for the signs that it needs replacing sooner and check in with your UPS service provider if you aren’t sure if it needs replacing or not.
Can I replace the UPS battery myself or do I need professional help?
While in some cases you could replace your own UPS battery, there can be complications and issues that make it far more sensible to leave it to the professionals. Your UPS system should be maintained by your provider who can take care of this for you safely and efficiently.
What are the factors to consider when choosing a new UPS system?
Before you decide on a new UPS system you need to consider your own needs first. While any UPS is designed to maintain power for a period when issues arise, you need to know how long you may require it to last, how big the supply must be, how often you will use it and so on.
Your UPS service provider should be able to help meet all your needs and help you find the perfect system for your company’s emergency power requirements.
Should I consider upgrading to a higher capacity UPS system instead of replacing the battery?
Which the right decision is will vary depending on your own circumstances. If your UPS system is less than 5 years old and has no other problems, a new battery can be the right solution. If, however, you have recurring issues that are not solved when replacing the battery, a new higher capacity UPS system will likely be the better choice.
