Weighing Different UPS Options

Modern life depends on reliable power. It is that simple, but it is not always that reliable. With grid failures becoming increasingly common, your business needs a dependable Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) to provide the emergency power required to keep your computers, lights, etc., operational until the standby generator kicks on or the power is restored. There are many types of UPS options available, and it is vital to select the one that best fits your needs. Taking the time to understand the capabilities and operation of each will help ensure you select the ideal solution.

Static UPS

Static UPS systems use a battery and are designed to deliver instantaneous power. This gives you considerable protection against power sags, surges, variations in frequency, harmonics, and more. Static UPS systems are ideal for high-security facilities, small data centers, and offices.

Dynamic UPS

Dynamic UPS systems typically replace the battery with a kinetic energy storage system that relies on an electric generator to transform electrical energy into mechanical operation. These systems are ideal for hospitals, data centers, manufacturing facilities, and locations where fluctuations in power quality or sudden loss of power can be catastrophic.

Hybrid UPS

Hybrid systems combine batteries with an alternative power source, i.e., solar panels or battery storage. Paired with an inverter, these systems will charge batteries from the grid and discharge power when load leveling is required. Hybrid systems are ideal for use when the goal is to use stored off-peak power during peak periods.

Diesel Rotary UPS

Also known as DRUPS systems, these use a diesel-fueled electrical generator to power your system for as long as your fuel supply lasts. Ideal for situations where power disruptions can be lengthy, DRUPS systems store kinetic energy within a flywheel to drive the electrical generator.

Sizing Up Your UPS Options

One of the first things you will have to consider is the proper size of the system for the load. This will help narrow your search down to the systems that have the capacity your operations require. When sizing your needs, consider all the equipment you will want to protect with your UPS.

You will want to calculate both the amps and volts required for each device and multiply these two numbers to arrive at the VoltAmps (VA) required. Then, multiply the VA with the total number of devices, and then add both this number and the VA together, and you will arrive at the most accurate load calculation. Finally, it is advisable to multiply this number by 1.2 to give yourself a little wiggle room as your business grows and your need for additional power rises.

Consider the Threats To Your Operations

When considering a UPS for your business, you want to select a system that is rated to address the specific threats to your equipment, computers, machines, etc. Thus, you will want to thoroughly investigate surges, blackouts, brownouts, voltage sags, over-voltage, frequency noise, frequency variation, harmonic distortion, etc. While your UPS should provide protection against all of these, some systems are better suited for specific problems than others. Thus, it is worth taking the time to investigate the capabilities of the UPS option.

Are you searching for the best UPS for your business? Contact Central Power Systems & Services at (816) 781-8070, and we will be happy to assist you. Our experts can help you understand the features and functions of different UPS options and help you identify the best make and model for your operations.