UPS Buying Guide - 4 Key Factors to Consider When Buying a UPS for Your Home or Business
A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) is a device that provides backup power and protection for your electronic equipment in case of power problems, such as blackouts, surges, brownouts, voltage sags, over-voltage, and frequency noise. A UPS can prevent data loss, damage, and downtime caused by unexpected power disruptions. But how do you choose the right UPS for your needs? Here are four important factors to consider before buying a UPS.
1. Determine The Load Size
The first step is to identify the devices that you want to connect to the UPS and calculate their total power consumption. This will help you determine the capacity of the UPS that you need. The capacity of a UPS is measured in watts (W) and volt-amperes (VA). Watts measures the real power drawn by the devices, while VA measures the apparent power that the UPS needs to supply. The ratio of watts to VA is called the power factor and is usually expressed as a percentage. For example, a device with a power factor of 80% draws 80 W of real power and 100 VA of apparent power.
To find out the wattage and VA ratings of your devices, you can check their labels, manuals, or websites. Alternatively, you can use a wattmeter or an online calculator to measure or estimate their power consumption. You should also consider any future expansion plans and add some extra capacity for safety. Generally, your UPS should have an output watt capacity 20-25% higher than the total power drawn by your devices.
2. Calculate The UPS Runtime
The next step is to decide how long you want the UPS to provide backup power in case of a power outage. This will depend on your needs and preferences. For example, if you only want to save your work and shut down your computer safely, you may need a few minutes of runtime. But if you want to keep working or gaming without interruption, you may need more runtime. The runtime of a UPS is determined by the battery size and the load level. The higher the load, the shorter the runtime. Most UPS models have a runtime chart or a runtime calculator on their websites that show how long they can support different load levels.
You should also consider the battery life and replacement cost of the UPS. The battery life depends on several factors, such as usage frequency, temperature, maintenance, and quality. Typically, a UPS battery lasts 3-5 years before it needs to be replaced. You can check the battery status and health indicators on the UPS or its software to monitor its condition and performance. You should also check the warranty and availability of replacement batteries for your UPS model.
3. Determine The Number of Outlets Required
Another factor to consider is how many outlets you need on the UPS to connect your devices. You should also check the type and shape of the outlets and make sure they are compatible with your plugs and cords. Some UPS models have different types of outlets for different purposes. For example, some outlets may provide both battery backup and surge protection, while others may provide only surge protection. Some outlets may also have special features, such as USB ports, data line protection, transformer block spacing, or eco mode.
You should connect only your essential devices to the battery backup outlets, such as your computer, monitor, modem, and router. You should avoid connecting non-essential or power-hungry devices, such as printers, scanners, speakers, or fans, as they may overload or drain the battery quickly. You can connect these devices to the surge-only outlets or use a separate surge protector.
4. Consider UPS Installation Requirements
The last factor to consider is how and where you want to install the UPS. You should choose a location that is close to your devices, well-ventilated, dry, and dust-free. You should also make sure there is enough space and clearance around the UPS for airflow and maintenance. You should avoid placing the UPS near heat sources, water sources, or magnetic fields.
You should also check the size, weight, and shape of the UPS and make sure it fits your space and preferences. Some UPS models are designed to be placed on a desk or a floor, while others are designed to be mounted on a wall or a rack. You should also check the cord length and input voltage of the UPS and make sure they match your needs and outlets.
Conclusion
A UPS is a valuable investment for protecting your electronic equipment and data from power problems. To choose the right UPS for your needs, you should consider the following factors:
- The size of the load that needs UPS protection
- The required UPS runtime for critical devices and applications
- The number of outlets required
- The UPS installation requirements
You can use online tools, such as UPS selectors, calculators, or comparison charts, to help you find the best UPS model for your needs. You can also consult with a professional or a reputable UPS vendor for more guidance and advice
References
[1] “UPS Buying Guide: Battery backup for uninterrupted power,” APC USA. https://www.apc.com/us/en/support/product-support/ups-buying-guide-for-selecting-a-battery-backup-system.jsp (accessed Aug. 11, 2022).
[2] “UPS Buying Guide - Choosing a UPS System 101: The Fundamentals,” CyberPower Power Blog. https://www.cyberpowersystems.com/blog/buying-guides/choosing-a-ups/ (accessed Aug. 11, 2022).
[3] “UPS Buying Guide,” Vertiv. https://www.vertiv.com/en-asia/about/news-and-insights/articles/blog-posts/ups-buying-guide/ (accessed Aug. 11, 2022).
Post a Comment: