• UPS should be kept in a cool, dry location with adequate ventilation.  Ideal temperature where UPS is kept should not exceed 24C and 2" space should be provided on all sides for proper airflow.
• Optimal operating temperature for lead-acid batteries is 24C.  Elevated temperatures reduces longevity.  Every 8C rise in temperature will cut the battery life in half.
• Perform runtime calibrations on your UPS once or twice a year, if necessary.  Consistenly performing these calibrations can decrease the life expectancy of UPS batteries.
• Do not store batteries for longer than 12 months.  After this time the battery should be used or it will ose a great deal of its charge.
• A unit's rated capacity should not exceed 80% due to the reduction in runtime.  In the event of a power failure, a UPS loaded to full capacity will drain and discharge its battery quickly, in turn lessening the life expectancy.

*courtesy of APC Currents, June 2011.

Last updated on July 12, 2011 by Karin Lum