Key takeaways
- Every server, firewall and core switch needs UPS power
- Online double-conversion UPS units give the cleanest power
- Batteries typically need replacing every three to five years
- Automatic shutdown protects data during long outages
Power interruptions, voltage dips and surges are a real risk for IT equipment, even in well-serviced buildings. Fit-out works, generator switchovers and building maintenance can all cut power without warning. A UPS keeps equipment running long enough to ride through short outages or shut down safely.
Types of UPS
Standby units suit individual desktops. Line-interactive units add voltage regulation and are common for small racks. Online double-conversion units supply continuously clean power and are the right choice for servers, storage and critical network equipment.
What to protect
Prioritise equipment that would cause the most disruption if it lost power:
- Servers and storage systems
- Firewalls and internet routers
- Core and PoE switches
- Phone systems and PoE phones
- CCTV recorders and access control panels
- Wi-Fi controllers and key access points
Sizing correctly
Add up the power draw of connected equipment, allow headroom for growth, and decide how long you need runtime: a few minutes to shut down cleanly, or longer to bridge to a generator. External battery packs extend runtime where needed.
Automatic shutdown
UPS units with network cards can tell servers and storage to shut down gracefully when batteries run low. This avoids corrupted databases and file systems during extended outages.
Maintenance
UPS batteries wear out, especially in warm rooms. Monitor battery health, run self-tests, keep comms rooms cool and replace batteries proactively, typically every three to five years. A UPS with dead batteries gives no protection.
Our service
We assess your power needs, supply and install UPS systems, configure shutdown and monitoring, and include battery checks in our maintenance plans.
Frequently asked questions
It depends on load and battery size, from a few minutes to over an hour with extra batteries.
Usually not, unless they run critical tasks. Servers and network equipment should always have one.
Yes, with a network management card or software agent.
Yes. High temperatures shorten battery life significantly.
