A Simple UPS Maintenance Routine

A UPS only matters when the power fails, and that is the worst time to find out it does not work. Most UPS failures come from the battery, dust or heat, and most can be found early with a simple routine.

Key takeaways

• Check the display and alarms regularly and keep a log.
• Keep the room cool and the vents clear of dust.
• Test the battery and run a controlled test from time to time.
• Plan a battery replacement before it fails.

1. Every month

1. Look at the display and the event log for alarms, overloads and battery warnings.
2. Check the load on the UPS against its rating. A UPS that is always near full is at risk.
3. Check the room temperature and that the vents are not blocked.
4. Note the results in a log, with the date.

2. Every quarter

1. Run the UPS self-test, if it has one, and note the result.
2. Clean dust from the vents and the filters; dust blocks airflow and heats the batteries.
3. Check the connections for looseness, heat marks and corrosion, with the equipment shut down where the manual requires.
4. Check the batteries for swelling, leaks and heat.

3. Every year

1. Have a technician check the voltage of each battery and the internal condition, using a tester.
2. Do a controlled discharge test, with a safe plan and a bypass if needed, to see the real backup time.
3. Check the fans, capacitors and other wearing parts, which are replaced at intervals the maker gives.
4. Check the bypass operation, and update the firmware if the maker advises.
5. Record the results.

4. Batteries

Batteries are the weak point. A rule of thumb is to replace sealed UPS batteries every three to five years, sooner in a hot room. Compare test results with the new values; see when to replace a UPS or solar battery and temperature and battery life.

5. The room

Keep the UPS room clean, dry and cool, with free space around the unit and with the doors and the vents unblocked. Do not store anything on top of the UPS.

6. Service contracts

For a plant or data room, a maintenance contract with regular visits and a quick response is common. Ask what is included: visits, parts, batteries, labour and response time.

Next step

We service UPS systems and batteries; see our maintenance and repair services, or contact us through the contact page.