Backup Power

UPS Maintenance

How to Maintain a UPS System

Introduction A UPS should not simply be installed and forgotten. Regular inspection and maintenance can help identify issues before they become operational problems. What Should Be Checked? Depending on the UPS: Battery Maintenance UPS batteries have a finite service life and may eventually require replacement. Keep Records Maintain records of: Final takeaway Regular attention to UPS condition can help improve operational preparedness.

UPS Selection

How Long Will a UPS Run During a Power Outage?

Introduction UPS runtime is not a single fixed number. The amount of time a UPS can operate during an outage depends on several variables. The Main Factors Connected Load Higher load generally means shorter runtime. Battery Capacity Larger battery configurations can provide longer runtime. Battery Condition Older or degraded batteries may provide less runtime than new batteries. External Battery Cabinets Compatible external battery cabinets can significantly extend runtime. Example A GXT5 system can have substantially different runtime at 50% load compared with 100% load. Therefore, asking “How many minutes does this UPS provide?” without specifying the load can be misleading. Final takeaway Provide your expected load when asking Power Icon for a runtime recommendation.

UPS Selection

Refurbished UPS vs. New UPS: What Should You Choose?

Introduction Buying a UPS doesn’t always mean buying a brand-new unit. Refurbished UPS equipment can provide another option for businesses that need established power-protection hardware while managing equipment costs. What Is a Refurbished UPS? A refurbished UPS is pre-owned equipment that has undergone inspection, servicing and testing before being offered for reuse. Why Consider Refurbished Equipment? Potential advantages include: What Should You Check? Ask about: Power Icon’s Approach Power Icon supplies pre-owned UPS equipment that is refurbished and tested before delivery. New replacement batteries are available separately.

UPS Maintenance

UPS Batteries: What You Should Know Before Buying

Introduction The battery system is one of the most important components of a UPS. A UPS can be electrically functional while still requiring battery replacement because batteries naturally age over time. Why Batteries Matter Battery condition affects: New Batteries for Refurbished UPS Systems Power Icon supplies refurbished UPS units separately from replacement batteries. New batteries can be provided separately based on the specific UPS model and required configuration. Why Battery Pricing Varies Battery pricing can change according to: Final takeaway Always confirm the battery configuration when purchasing a refurbished UPS.

UPS Basics

Online UPS vs. Standby UPS: What’s the Difference?

Introduction Not every UPS uses the same power-protection architecture. Two commonly discussed approaches are standby UPS systems and online UPS systems. Understanding the difference can help when evaluating equipment for critical applications. Standby UPS A standby UPS normally supplies incoming utility power to connected equipment and switches to battery power when the input supply fails or moves outside acceptable limits. Online UPS An online double-conversion UPS continuously processes incoming electrical power before delivering output power to the connected equipment. This architecture is commonly used where power quality and continuity are important. Why Choose Online? Online UPS systems can be appropriate for: Final takeaway UPS selection should be based on the actual application rather than simply choosing the cheapest available backup system.

UPS Basics

What Is a UPS and Why Does Your Equipment Need One?

Introduction A UPS, or Uninterruptible Power Supply, is designed to provide protected electrical power to connected equipment during power disturbances and outages. For businesses operating computers, network infrastructure, medical equipment, industrial electronics or other sensitive loads, a UPS can form an important part of an overall power-protection strategy. What Does a UPS Do? A UPS can help protect connected equipment from: Online UPS systems take power protection a step further by continuously converting incoming power before supplying the connected load. Why Is This Important? An unexpected power interruption can cause equipment shutdown, interrupted operations, and potential data or equipment problems. For critical environments, maintaining protected power can be an important operational consideration. Final takeaway The right UPS depends on the equipment, electrical load, required runtime, and operating environment.