Battery | APC UPS Blog - ExcessUPS.com

What is the shelf life of a UPS battery?

The battery of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) provides the backup power to critical devices whenever the main source of power goes out. This makes the battery one of the most important components of a UPS.

When a UPS battery is stored, it normally discharges at a rate of between 3% and 10% per month depending on the rating of the battery and the temperature of the place where it is stored. When the surrounding temperature is 25°C, the discharge rate is at 3% per month. This increases to 10% per month when the temperature of the storage area is at or more than 30°C.

It is essential to recharge a UPS battery within six months. However, if the ambient temperature is more than 30°C, it is necessary to recharge the UPS battery every three months.

This is indispensable since large crystals or heavy lead sulfate may form on the battery plates if the UPS battery is left uncharged for a long period of time. This situation is called sulfation and may result in premature damage to the battery.

References:

http://forums.apc.com/spaces/14/general-questions-suggestions/forums/general/10439/battery-shelf-life-when-not-charged-as-scheduled

http://www.apc.com/us/en/faqs/FA156516/

http://forums.apc.com/spaces/4/back-ups-surge-protectors/forums/general/10420/new-battery-shelf-life-how-much-is-too-much-and-what-is-apc-s-policy

How to Replace an APC Back-UPS Pro Battery

When the “replace the battery” light on an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) comes on, it may be necessary to replace the battery. The following shows the procedure to follow in replacing the battery of the newer models of the APC Back-UPS Pro, including the BR 1500G:
1. Lay down the APC Back-UPS Pro with its battery compartment facing the user.
2. Press the release tabs before sliding up the battery cover.
3. Remove the expired battery from the UPS by pulling at the tabs.
4. Insert the new battery into the APC Back-UPS Pro while making sure the green sticker is facing upwards.
5. Slide down the cover until the release tab is locked.

The preceding procedure is applicable to the newer models of the APC Back-UPS Pro since the older models use a different method. This is mainly due to the location of the battery in these models. These batteries of these older models are located in the front part of the UPS.

The following is the procedure used in replacing the battery of the older models of the APC Back-UPS Pro, including the BR1500.

1. Slide down the battery cover before removing it.
2. Unhook the battery connector piece from the connector of the UPS.
3. Slide the old battery from the UPS.
4. Insert the replacement battery into the UPS before connecting it.
5. Slide the battery cover of the UPS until it locks into place.

It is not advisable to disassemble the equipment since it has potentially dangerous voltages. The only component to be removed is the battery. The battery contains lead that can be hazardous to health and the environment. Due to this, it is important to return it to an authorized service center for proper disposal or recycling. It is also important to avoid opening the battery since it contains a toxic electrolyte that is harmful to the eyes and skin.

The following video shows how to replace the battery of new and old models of the APC Back-UPS Pro.

References:

http://www.apc.com/us/en/faqs/FA158825/

http://agsci.psu.edu/it/how-to/county-servers-apc-ups-battery-replacement

http://www.schneider-electric.us/en/faqs/FA158827/

UPS Does Not Work During An Outage

An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is used to provide critical devices suitable power for a few minutes when the main source of power goes out. This allows users to save important files and shut down their devices properly.

There may be instances when the UPS will work when it is unplugged but will not work during an actual outage. Aside from ensuring that the devices are connected to the battery backup outlet (and not a surge-only outlet), it is also important to check if the red overload indicator is continuously illuminated. In this situation, the devices are drawing more power than what the UPS can handle. You may need to disconnect non-essential devices from the UPS. It is also advisable to check the battery if it is still working properly. If the battery is not working properly, it will be essential to replace it with a new one.

On the other hand, when the red overload indicator is flashing it may be that the UPS is faulty. It will be necessary to contact the manufacturer if the UPS is still under warranty to get a replacement unit.

How to replace an APC Smart-UPS rack mount battery

When the “replace battery” indicator lights up, it may be necessary to replace the battery of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).

Note: it is also important to ensure that the battery really requires replacement. In an earlier post, I let you know that there may be instances when the red light indicator turns on even though it is not necessary to replace the battery.

The following shows the steps in replacing a rack-mount battery of an APC Smart UPS.

1. Position the UPS to let it face you
2. Remove the front bezel of the UPS
3. Pull the battery connector by the string
4. Remove the screws holding the battery in place
5. Pull the battery module out
6. Get a new rack-mount battery
7. Slide in the replacement battery and mate the Anderson connectors
8. Screw the battery module back in place

When replacing a rack-mount battery of a UPS, it is important to keep in mind that the equipment may contain high voltages. Due to this it is necessary to avoid disassembling the entire unit except the part where the battery is positioned. It is also important for users to remember that the battery is the only component they can service. The original battery and replacement battery should have the same type and number. Before replacing the battery, it is advisable to remove watches, bracelets and rings. It is also necessary to use tools with insulated handles.

If the battery replacement light flashes after the battery is replaced, a run time calibration will have to be performed since the UPS may not be able to evaluate the status of the new battery. After the calibration is completed, the UPS will have the new run time availability and the lights should turn off.

The following video shows the step-by-step procedure in replacing a rack mount battery of an APC Smart-UPS: