How to test your UPS Batteries. UPS or Uninterruptable Power Supplies are found in many mission-critical power applications.
The task at hand that they perform in the case of a power outage is invaluable. BUT do you know if your UPS will stand up to the test if the time comes?
In this blog, the Valen Team discuss a few handy tips to help ensure that your UPS will be ready when the time comes.
Is your UPS sized correctly?
First Tip, is your UPS sized correctly? It is essential to ensure that your UPS is adequately sized to carry the complete power load for the specified time of a power outage.
If you are unsure, it is best to call out to the UPS service provider or OEM. Bear in mind that any additional equipment added to the original infrastructure will reduce the UPS run time. For example, if additional lighting is added to the existing infrastructure in a hospital theatre, the UPS run time will be reduced according to the amount of power consumed to run the lighting during an outage.
UPS Maintenance
Regular professional maintenance is required to ensure that your UPS remains in shipshape condition.
This maintenance could involve your UPS service technician visiting the site and assessing the current run times and more.
It is important to remember that your battery capacity will reduce with age, so this needs to be checked on a regular basis. This maintenance is essential if your UPS is powering a mission-critical site such as emergency telecommunications.
All external battery packs will need to be tested as well. In addition, individual UPS manufacturers will have detailed installation and operation manuals which will need to be complied with in order for the UPS system to operate efficiently and retain original warranties.
Quality Batteries for your UPS
Batteries are the main component of any UPS. The UPS will only run as efficiently as the battery, so it is crucial to ensure that you have quality batteries that will deliver their required runtime.
If you are unsure how the batteries will hold up, talk to a UPS professional who will support you.
UPS Battery Testing
Battery load testing is recommended to assess the absolute battery capacity at any given time. However, impedance testing is a quick, easy and accurate option if battery readings can be obtained and recorded over the battery system’s life. Furthermore, impedance readings can be completed with a live circuit and will save a tremendous amount of valuable time on site.
QUESTIONS
Do you have further technical questions on whether your system is mission-critical ready?
Reach out to the Team at Valen, who will be happy to look at your system and recommend a complete UPS and Battery solution for you!
Disclaimer: Valen accepts no liability for any damage caused by this blog. All suggestions are of a general nature and actions taken should be approved by the OEM before commencing
