The lifespan of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can vary based on its design, how much it’s used, and what load it’s put under while active. Eventually, however, it will need to be replaced by a newer model. If the obsolescence of the UPS is not addressed, your facility may be left without power in the aftermath of a surge, outage, or other electrical issue. As a result, you may face data and efficiency losses as well as dangerous working conditions, which can all cause serious problems for your facility and those working there.
Not every issue with your UPS means you have to replace it. In many cases, repairs will be less expensive and require less time and energy. They may even give you a chance to upgrade your UPS with newer components that will do the job more efficiently.
Use this UPS system repair or replacement guide to determine the right avenue for your facility.
Unpacking the Role of a UPS System
Your UPS is the first line of defense when traditional power systems fail or are otherwise compromised. It activates quickly to sustain business continuity, security systems, and everything else your facility relies on to function.
These systems vary in terms of load capacity and battery runtime, meaning you can choose the specific model that meets your exact needs. Many UPS models activate immediately when needed, allowing for work to continue seamlessly for a time while other systems, such as standby generators, prepare to take over.
In hospitals, data centers, and government facilities, this immediate activation capability is especially vital. It protects critical data from being lost or destroyed and ensures that essential communication and medical services remain up and running when they are needed most.
There are three main types of UPS:
Standby: These systems are slightly slower than other options, as they turn on when their inverter activates in response to an outage. For many facilities, however, this delay is not an issue. If you need a straightforward UPS to support non-critical systems, a standby model may be for you.
Line-interactive: Unlike standby UPSs, these systems are always active, charging while electrical systems are operating normally and taking over when they’re not.
Online double conversion: Like line-interactive systems, online double conversion UPSs are capable of immediately taking over in case of a short or power outage. They also run incoming electricity through a double conversion process that smooths out the voltage spikes and distortions that come with alternating current (AC) power. This process makes the electricity these UPSs provide both cleaner and more efficient, perfect for businesses that rely heavily on information technology (IT) and data services.
Signs to Replace a UPS System
In order to decide whether you should repair or replace your UPS, you need to know what problems warrant replacing the entire system with a new model. These are serious issues that either result in excessive costs for what they’re worth or lead to the system not performing on a consistent basis.
Consider a replacement if your facility is dealing with any of the following:
Frequent alarms, unexpected shutdowns, or reduced battery runtimes: If the UPS isconsistently in need of repairs or falling short of its listed capacity, it is likely time to replace it. In some cases, a reduced runtime may be caused by your load demands outgrowing the capacity of your system, or an internal battery failure. Working closely with Critical Power Professionals™ to assess the nature of the problem is important.
Climbing maintenance costs: Over time, the UPS will naturally degrade, which often results in an interlocking mess of malfunctioning components that only exacerbate one another and increase costs. If your UPS has started to require increasingly expensive repairs, it may be time to replace it with a newer model. In many cases, replacement actually saves you money in the long run, by requiring less repair costs and increasing power efficiency.
Difficulty accessing replacement parts: Some UPS components are rare and difficult to access. Batteries and filters are relatively easy to acquire, but more niche components, such as your system’s specific inverter, may need to be fabricated and shipped to your location. This is especially true if you’re using an older UPS. These components may result in slow repair times and heightened maintenance bills. If your system is experiencing either, you may want to invest in a newer model with more accessible parts.
Repairing vs. Replacing Your UPS System
In many situations, deciding between repairing and replacing your UPS is not clear-cut. You may be able to get a few more years out of your current system with a repair, or you could invest in a new model that is more expensive but comes with the latest software and firmware advancements that offer heightened efficiency and a longer lifespan.
Some recent UPSs even boast anywhere from 92% to 99% energy efficiency as a result of this technology. If you’re trying to decide between repairing and replacing your UPS, consider the following:
Cost: Weighing UPS replacement cost vs. repair cost is where you should start. Critical Power Professionals™ can offer insight into how expensive a given repair is likely to be, and you can assess the price of a potential replacement online. If the former exceeds the latter, the replacement is likely the way to go.
Long-term savings: A single repair may be less expensive in the short term, but your UPS will need to be repaired again in the future. If your system consistently requires repairs to keep running, replacing it may be your best option. You can save money and potentially gain access to improved UPS technology at the same time.
Downtime and future failures: If your UPS consistently needs repairs, it is costing your facility valuable time and resources. Choosing to repair it may solve the problem for now, but you are still running the risk that it will malfunction and require lengthy repairs when you need it in the future.
Upgraded technology: While a repair may return your UPS to normal, an upgrade can increase its efficiency and give it access to a suite of new features. For example, automatic voltage regulation (AVR) and external battery packs can significantly extend battery runtime and protect your equipment from unstable voltage fluctuations.
Scalability and compatibility: Facilities in the process of expanding should seriously consider their current UPS’s load capacity and battery runtime. If it is expected to power more devices in the future, it may not be able to bear the load. In this case, replacement offers a simple solution that both prevents future malfunctions and grants peace of mind.
Trade-ins and other incentives: Some critical power providers offer trade-in benefits and other deals that can radically decrease the cost of investing in an all-new UPS system. Before committing to repair or replacement, look for potential trade-in options that can make the whole process less taxing on your facility’s bottom line.
Partner With Nationwide Power for All Your UPS Needs
When it comes time to repair or replace your UPS, you want to know you’re making the right choice. You can make that decision with confidence when you have Nationwide Power on your side. We’ve partnered with clients just like you since 2006, and our robust product offerings mean we can meet your facility’s exact needs. Even if you’re just looking for maintenance, our UPS services have you covered.
Have a question or need more information? Use our convenient online request for quote form or give us a call at 866-261-4108 and we will promptly respond to your needs.
