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UPS Batteries

Sealed Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid batteries (SVRLAs) are the workhorse of almost all current UPS systems, large and small. In normal UPS use they are maintenance-free. Design life is typically either five or ten years, with some fifteen-year sizes available. Replacement is normal at least a year before the design life expires and on larger systems batteries will be checked as part of a normal service regime at least once per year. High temperatures shorten the life of all lead-acid batteries. SVRLA design life is rated at 25°C. For every five degrees above that, battery life is halved.

Many plug-in UPS have 'user-replaceable' batteries. This saves time and money when battery replacement is due. Often the cost of transporting a UPS without this feature to our workshop, plus engineer time, outweighs the cost of a new UPS, which will typically come with a two-year warranty.

Batteries are connected in series into 'strings'. The number of batteries will depend upon the DC design voltage of the system and the runtime required by the user. Multiple strings are preferable for improved reliability, as a single faulty cell within a string can render the whole string useless. For this reason, many users of larger UPS invest in battery monitoring systems, which measure battery parameters continuously, enabling our engineers to spot a battery before it fails.

Replacing UPS Batteries

Unfortunately UPS batteries will not last indefinitely. Normal life expectancy is 4 years. This is dependent on frequency of use, duration of use and environmental conditions such as heat and humidity. We advise that replacements should occur every 3 years. We also recommend that batteries are periodically tested to ensure they are still functioning correctly.

Supply of Replacement Batteries

We can supply and install all types and makes of UPS batteries. They can be replaced during an annual Preventative Maintenance Visit (as part of a maintenance contract), or during a Health Check. They can be replaced either on a unit-by-unit basis or all batteries replaced at the same time.

We supply replacement UPS batteries for all the major manufacturers including AEC, APC, Chloride, Eaton Powerware, Emerson, Liebert, GE Digital Energy, MGE, Riello, Socomec ... and many more. Replacement batteries can be ordered online or by calling our service team on 01488 680 500.

Battery Disposal

Batteries must be disposed of safely to protect the environment. Battery disposal is governed by statutory Special Waste Regulations and must follow prescribed methods; if you do not have this facility we can remove them and dispose of them safely on your behalf.