Uninterruptible Power Supply FAQs

Most modern UPS systems feature a digital display where you can view estimated runtime. UPS runtimes are based on total connected load and the number of installed batteries, and battery health is essential for maintaining accurate runtime. A single faulty battery can significantly reduce available backup time or hinder the UPS from sustaining the connected load, but you can add battery capacity to lengthen runtime.

A Valve-Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) battery’s typical life expectancy is three to five years, and this is the most common UPS battery type. The battery’s environment impacts its lifespan. The ideal temperature is 78 degrees Fahrenheit, and battery life cuts in half for every 5 degrees over 78.

If you don’t change UPS batteries, they can become less reliable and fail to support their connected load. A degraded battery can also develop thermal runaway, a condition that causes overheating and can result in fire, explosion or the release of harmful gases. It’s vital to change a UPS battery according to its manufacturer’s recommendation.

You can determine how much equipment is connected to your UPS by checking the system’s display or LED indicator. UPS output load levels typically appear as an output load percentage, indicating the unit’s total available capacity.

Rack-mounted UPS systems and those rated below 10 kVA are typically considered non-field-repairable. Aside from basic battery module replacement, these units usually lack serviceable or replaceable components. In most cases, a UPS manufacturer will not provide support beyond battery replacement.

If a UPS fails to support the load during a power outage, the batteries may be weak, or the outage may have exceeded the UPS’s estimated runtime. First, verify whether the unit operated in battery mode during the outage and, if so, for how long. You should also have a qualified person inspect and test the batteries and replace them if necessary.

Nationwide Power customers with a full service agreement can expect a four hour response time, unless otherwise stated. The response time may be shorter depending on the nearest metro area.

While OEMs often recommend full system replacement once a UPS reaches its stated life expectancy, Nationwide Power specializes in keeping legacy units operational through proactive maintenance and replacing age-based parts. Internal component wear is often invisible until a critical failure, making regular service vital for long-term reliability.

Additionally, if your facility has seen a reduction in loads, downsizing to a right-sized unit can significantly improve efficiency and lower costs. Whether extending the life of your current equipment or optimizing for modern power needs, we ensure your backup power remains dependable without the immediate need for a full system overhaul.

Although obsolescence is a real factor, we will always offer tailored solutions for each unique scenario that maximizes value while minimizing costs.