How to store a UPS system?

A standby UPS is an important tool for all businesses to prevent losing important data. The system ensures a vital base of operations. For instance, telecommunication systems, bundles of networks, varieties of services, processes, and servers. UPS units offer protection from poor quality and unreliable power supply. The environment of where the UPS unit is to be stored can affect the overall design. In this article we will explore the significance of a UPS environment/how to store a UPS system.

Purchasing a UPS System

Most businesses in the process of purchasing a UPS system explore the expenses and what the product has to offer. For example, Life span, Durability, quality of energy supplied, quantity of energy supplied, and the reliability of the battery. These considerations are crucial when selecting a UPS unit. However, they may not be sufficient. The conditions of the building may jeopardize the effectiveness of the UPS system. For this reason, critical examination of the environment should be undertaken to optimise the systems performance. The following are examples of factors to be considered:

• Humidity
• Temperature
• Dust
• Coastal environment/Wetlands

In a perfect world you would house all technology and the supporting UPS in a climate-controlled room. For instance, a communications room or main server room. The next best option will be a climate controlled open office. In reality, not all companies have the location or size to achieve this. Below is an analysis of the major points listed above, we will explore the effects they may have on your UPS performance.

Humidity

Much alike high temperatures, Humidity can also affect your UPS systems. High humidity levels can result in moisture entering the UPS. This may damage the UPS board beyond repair, furthermore it may result in a fire.

You may find certain articles will advise ‘humidity of less than 90% won’t affect your UPS if you have the latest systems’. Nevertheless, its crucial to check the specific or suitable environment recommended for each UPS system. Our team of engineers are trained to check the suitability and reliability of your environment. Additionally, we offer recommendation and assistance when choosing the correct UPS system for your business requirements.

Temperature

The temperature has a direct effect on UPS batteries. This is including UPS Power Supplies UK based and worldwide. The majority of UPS batteries are built to function without any issues in temperatures between 20-25°C. In addition, operation between this temperature will maintain the battery’s lifespan.

A slight increase in temperature, 22°C or over can shorten the lifespan of the battery by 50%. However, this increase does have a positive effect on the performance of the UPS. Lower temperatures increase the battery’s life span but reduces the systems performance. The higher the temperature, the more the battery suffers. For example, at 30°C the battery’s life can decrease by 66%.

Dust

While this might seem insignificant, dust can in fact completely damage a UPS system. Much alike PC’s. UPS systems should be cleaned regularly with a lint free cloth and a can of compressed air to remove any dust, dirt or hairs that may block the UPS internal cooling system. Ignoring this process with inevitably lead to the UPS system overheating and reducing its lifespan.

Coastal Environment

Having your office near the coast may sound appealing but did you know this too can render a quality UPS system useless? We understand this may sound very odd as the UPS system won’t be stored outside. As you’re already aware the air by the coast has a high level of salt, the salty air can be detrimental to your UPS internal circuits. The air may completely damage the UPS beyond repair. To overcome this, you will need to seek professional assistance when planning to purchase a UPS system.