UPS systems require routine maintenance and service just like your automobile requires oil changes, tune ups, fluid checks, and tire rotations.
Not only is completing scheduled maintenance on your vehicle recommended by every auto manufacturer, but the service findings can help detect a range of ailments before they become serious issues that are very costly if not corrected. Without proper maintenance, many UPS’s fail prematurely since consumable components such as batteries, capacitors, and fans wear out from normal use.
Variables such as input power, temperature, and environmental factors will affect the life of UPS and battery systems differently. Batteries have a finite life and with proper maintenance their life can be extended and should they show signs of failure preventative maintenance will enable you to have them replaced before a major problem occurs.
There are many reasons why a UPS may fail with these being the most common.
Batteries
Batteries that are bad is the most common reason a UPS fails. If one battery fails in a string or bank of batteries then the whole string will fail. Temperature and cumulative discharges are top reasons cited for battery failure.
Fans
Some fans fail because of their own electrical or mechanical limitations or when their ball bearings dry out. Fans may perform well for more than 10 years of continuous use, while others run for only short periods before locking up for mechanical reasons.
Capacitors
Like batteries, capacitors degrade over time. When a capacitor fails, there may not be any immediate visible effects. Temperature of the room that the UPS sits in has a large impact on the life of the capacitors. If the temperature is higher than recommended, the lifespan of the capacitors will shorten drastically.
Circuit Boards, Contactors & Sensors
Circuit boards, contactors and sensors are all internal and vital parts of the UPS. All of these are affected greatly by the temperature of the environment the UPS is in. Along with the temperature, dust and tiny debris can cause these pieces to fail.
Transient Spikes
Damage may be caused to the input side of the UPS (filter/rectifier) when a transient lightning spike occurs.
Predictive Technology, Inc will custom build a routine PM schedule that includes inspection, testing, calibration, cleaning components, and upgrade recommendations if necessary.
The maintenance inspection is comprised of a detailed audit of the equipment, it’s internal and external condition, the battery, alarm states and interfaces to other equipment.
