As winter approaches, facilities and businesses everywhere are gearing up to keep their operations running smoothly during colder months. When it comes to safeguarding your UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems, winter readiness is crucial. Cold weather can strain these systems, and with the increased risk of power outages, now is the perfect time to ensure your UPS is fully prepared. Here’s a guide to winter-proofing your UPS systems, brought to you by TSE Power, your trusted UPS supplier.
1. Perform a Thorough System Inspection
A comprehensive system inspection is the first step in winter-proofing your UPS. This includes:
- Checking Battery Health: Batteries can degrade more quickly in cold weather, so it’s essential to inspect them for any signs of wear, corrosion, or reduced capacity. Replace batteries if needed.
- Inspecting Cables and Connections: Cold weather can cause cables to become brittle, so ensure all connections are tight and free from corrosion.
- Testing Functionality: Run a diagnostic test to confirm that the system is working as expected. This includes testing the battery’s charge-holding capacity and ensuring it can provide adequate backup during a power outage.
2. Monitor Temperature and Humidity Levels
UPS systems work best within specific environmental conditions. For optimal performance:
- Keep the Room Warm: Extreme cold can reduce battery efficiency and increase the risk of failure. Ensure the UPS room maintains a stable temperature, ideally between 20–25°C (68–77°F).
- Control Humidity: Cold weather can lead to dry indoor air, but too much dryness can cause static electricity, which poses a risk to sensitive equipment. Aim for a relative humidity level of around 45–55% in the UPS room.
3. Regularly Maintain and Test Your System
Winter is an ideal time for preventive maintenance. Schedule regular check-ups with your UPS provider to keep the system in top shape:
- Schedule Battery Testing: Cold temperatures affect battery performance. Regularly test the batteries to confirm they can sustain load requirements during outages.
- Run Load Testing: Perform load testing to ensure your UPS can handle sudden power demands, especially if your business is in an area prone to frequent winter storms.
4. Invest in Remote Monitoring
If your team is working remotely or if site visits are less frequent during winter, remote monitoring is a valuable investment. Many UPS systems now offer remote monitoring, allowing you to:
- Track System Health 24/7: Remote monitoring ensures you can monitor the system’s performance and receive real-time alerts for any issues.
- Access Quick Diagnostics: This feature enables your team to troubleshoot and identify issues faster, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
5. Ensure Backup Generator Compatibility
Many businesses rely on generators as a secondary power source during prolonged outages, so it’s crucial to confirm that your generator is compatible with your UPS system. Test the generator’s functionality, and consider:
- Conducting Synchronisation Tests: Verify that your UPS and generator are compatible and able to switch seamlessly in the event of a power failure.
- Checking Fuel Levels: In case of severe weather, ensure your generator has enough fuel to last through extended outages, and perform a test run.
6. Review and Update Your Emergency Response Plan
An effective response plan is critical to minimising downtime during a power outage. Review your procedures to make sure your team is prepared and knows how to respond:
- Establish Key Contacts: Identify responsible individuals who can respond to UPS issues, and provide them with the necessary training.
- Document Procedures: Create a checklist outlining how to safely operate and shut down the UPS system if necessary.
7. Partner with a Trusted UPS Provider for Support
Winterising your UPS system doesn’t have to be a solo effort. Partnering with a reliable UPS provider like TSE Power ensures you have expert support to tackle any issues that may arise. With TSE Power’s expertise, you can:
- Schedule Regular Maintenance and Testing Services: We offer preventive maintenance plans to ensure your UPS is fully winter-ready.
- Access Emergency Support: Should an unexpected outage occur, our technicians are on standby to assist with emergency repairs and support.
Winter weather brings unique challenges, but with the right preparation, your UPS system will be ready to handle them. By following these essential tips and working with TSE Power, you can ensure your UPS system remains dependable all winter long, keeping your operations running smoothly, no matter the weather.
Get in touch with TSE Power today to learn more about winter-proofing your UPS systems. Stay ahead of winter’s challenges and protect your business from unexpected power disruptions!
Call us on 0800 999 3300 or email us at sales@tse-ups.com to get in contact.
