Your UPS system is the heart of your backup power. In the event something terrible happens – it can often be the difference between seamlessly continuing forward with business as usual and catastrophic data loss.
That being said, a single bad battery within a UPS battery string can create the risk of downtime. In fact, battery failures account for well over half of UPS system failures. Regardless of the type of UPS battery you have in your system – each one will be the most vulnerable and failure prone component of your system.
It’s for that reason that ongoing maintenance of your UPS batteries are critical to ensure that your backup power is there when you need it the most. Here are some things for you to consider as you determine how and how much you’ll have your system undergo maintenance.
Environmental concerns
Unfavorable environments can negatively impact the overall lifespan of your batteries. Simply put – when it’s too hot or too cold, it severely affects a battery’s ability to both conduct and store energy. Make sure that your battery is living in conditions that are to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Are your batteries charging correctly?
The big term to understand here is ‘float voltage.’ You’ll need enough float voltage so that there is enough potential to charge each of the batteries in the string while simultaneously staying in the desired range of power according to the manufacturer’s published range. This is important because an undercharged battery can significantly impact the service life of your battery system. Overcharging can cause work hazards. So make sure your float voltage is balanced!
Eyes don’t lie, this time at least
Every year you should check your batteries on your own visually. Notice any swelling or corrosion? Or anything else unusual? Because if you do – this could create a problem. Specifically be on the lookout for any leaky electrolyte that might be floating towards the battery rack or cabinet itself. This could lead to a system-wide short circuit and become more than a costly maintenance call. It could cause a system-wide replacement.
Our general recommendations is that you get your system regularly checked. Every month there should be a temperature check, float voltage check and making sure things like the surrounding area are clean and free of dust, debris and electrolyte. That way if there are underlying issues, you’ll be able to get out ahead of them before they become expensive issues. Don’t leave your business to chance – get your UPS system maintained today!