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Chapter 12 Helpful information
Battery FAQ
1. What is the "end of useful life"?
The IEEE defines "end of useful life" for a UPS battery as being the point when it can no longer
supply 80 percent of its rated capacity in ampere-hours. When your battery reaches 80
percent of its rated capacity, the aging process accelerates and the battery should be replaced.
2. What about battery disposal?
It's imperative that your service technicians adhere to EPA guidelines for the disposal of all
UPS batteries. Remember, it's the owner's responsibility to make sure these guidelines are
followed.
3. My UPS has been in storage for over a year. Are the batteries still good?
As batteries sit unused, with no charging regimen, their battery life will decrease. Due to the
self-discharge characteristics of lead-acid batteries, it's imperative that they're charged
periodically during storage or permanent loss of capacity will occur. To prolong shelf life
without charging, store batteries at 10 °C (50 °F) or less.
4. What is the difference between hot-swappable and user-replaceable batteries?
Hot-swappable batteries can be changed out while the UPS is running. User-replaceable
batteries are usually found in smaller UPS units and require no special tools or training to
replace. Batteries can be both hot-swappable and user-replaceable. Please check your user's
guide for details on your UPS batteries.
5. How is battery runtime affected if I reduce the load on the UPS?
The battery runtime will increase if the load is reduced. As a general rule, if you reduce the
load by half, you triple the runtime.
6. If I add more batteries to a UPS, can I add more load?
Adding more batteries to a UPS can increase the battery runtime to support the load, but it
doesn't increase the UPS capacity. Be sure your UPS is adequately sized for your load, then
add batteries to fit your runtime needs.
7. What is the average lifespan of UPS batteries?
The standard lifespan for VRLA batteries is three to five years; for wet-cell batteries it's up to
20 years. However, expected life can vary greatly due to environmental conditions, number
and depth of discharge cycles, and adequate maintenance. Having a regular schedule of
battery maintenance and monitoring will ensure you know when your batteries are reaching
their end-of-life.
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6U Rack or Tower UPS RT8kVA and RT11kVA IUOMG
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