UPS batteries: Selection, maintenance and replacement - Everything you need to know

Imagine the power goes out - can your IT systems keep running without being damaged? UPS batteries offer the solution by taking over immediately in the event of a power failure and protecting your devices.

In this article, you will learn how to choose the right UPS battery, maintain it correctly and replace it safely when necessary to keep your IT infrastructure running reliably. Find out more about how you can further expand and optimize your infrastructure in our blog post “Build IT infrastructure and benefit from improved processes”.

What is a UPS and why is it important?

A UPS (uninterruptible power supply) ensures a stable power supply and protects your IT systems from power outages, voltage fluctuations and interruptions. In the event of a problem in the power grid, the UPS automatically switches to battery power to prevent failures and damage. Especially in the event of brief or unnoticed power failures, it guarantees that your devices will continue to operate without causing data loss or damage. These systems therefore ensure that your devices are protected from disruptions in the power grid and that operational continuity is maintained.

Types of UPSs:

• Offline UPS: Simple design for lower requirements
• Line-interactive UPS: Provides additional protection in the event of voltage fluctuations
• Online UPS: Provides continuous and highest level of protection

UPS systems are used in critical areas such as data centers or hospitals where an uninterruptible power supply is essential. They consist of one or more battery modules, whereby the battery plays a decisive role in protecting against power failures and voltage fluctuations. You can find more information on UPS systems in our specialist article “UPS guide: How to find the right UPS system for your requirements”.

UPS batteries: Indispensable protection for IT security

Sensitive areas such as hospitals or data centers are susceptible to failures that can cause data loss and hardware damage. This is where the UPS battery comes in.

How UPS batteries work and protect

• Immediate support in the event of a power failure: As soon as the primary power source fails, the UPS battery automatically takes over the supply to the connected devices without delay. This ensures that operation remains stable at all times.
• Constant monitoring of the power grid: A UPS system continuously checks the quality of the power. In the event of fluctuations or faults, it switches to the battery at lightning speed to ensure a continuous power supply.
• Smooth energy conversion: The direct current stored in the battery is converted into alternating current for the operation of the devices - this happens seamlessly and without noticeable interruptions (see illustration).

Types of UPS batteries

There are different types of UPS batteries that offer different advantages depending on the requirements, which we explain in more detail below.

VRLA batteries (valve regulated lead-acid batteries) are maintenance-free, sealed batteries that are used in UPS systems, emergency power solutions, alarm systems and smaller IT infrastructures. The variants include AGM batteries and gel batteries:

• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are leak-proof, robust batteries that offer fast charging times and an extended service life thanks to their glass fiber mat technology.
• Gel batteries are maintenance-free, sealed batteries with a gel-like electrolyte that makes them leak-proof and resistant to vibrations and extreme temperatures.

Liquid lead-acid batteries are inexpensive, widely used energy storage devices for industrial applications such as data centers and telecommunication systems where regular maintenance is guaranteed.

Lithium-ion batteries are compact, lightweight and efficient energy storage devices that are used for modern data centers and high-end IT infrastructures where space, weight and low maintenance are crucial.

Service life and maintenance of UPS batteries

To ensure the performance of the UPS and a reliable power supply, it is crucial to replace the battery in good time. A regular test every 6 months helps to check the functionality of the battery. Many modern UPS systems offer the option of performing these tests automatically. However, it is possible to maximize the service life of the UPS batteries. The correct operating conditions should be observed, regular maintenance measures should be carried out and the battery should be tested regularly.

Optimum operating conditions

• Ideal temperature: 20 °C to 25 °C
• Excessively high or low temperatures shorten the service life
• Avoid temperature fluctuations and high humidity

Important factors that influence the service life:

Although these batteries are mostly maintenance-free and are operated in sealed housings, they are subject to natural wear and tear, which cannot be stopped after a certain time. Their service life depends on various factors, such as the operating temperature, the frequency of charging and discharging and the type of use.

• Temperature: Temperatures that are too high or too low can reduce the service life of the battery. A constant operating temperature of 20-25 °C is ideal.
• Storage: Even if the battery is not in active use, improper storage can affect its service life. Particularly long periods of storage can damage the battery.
• State of charge: Without regular recharging (every 3-6 months), performance may be impaired.
  Operating mode and discharge cycles: Frequent discharges and deep discharges shorten the service life. If the battery is regularly deeply discharged, this can lead to harmful sulphation, which impairs its function. Therefore, the discharge should not exceed 80% of the nominal capacity.

Disposal and recycling

As the replacement of the battery is associated with costs, you should hire a specialist for maintenance and replacement. They can also ensure that the used batteries are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner and recycled in accordance with the applicable regulations.

Step-by-step guide: Replacing UPS batteries safely

1. Preparation: Ensure that the UPS is switched off and disconnected from the power source. Wait a few minutes to allow the residual voltage to discharge. It is recommended to wear protective equipment such as gloves and safety goggles.
2. Remove the old battery: Open the battery housing or the battery compartment cover of the UPS.
3. Carefully disconnect the cables of the old battery (ensure correct polarity). Remove the battery from the housing and place it safely to one side.
4. Insert the new battery: Check that the new battery meets the specifications of the UPS. Insert the new battery into the compartment without crushing or damaging the cables. Reconnect the cables according to the polarity.
5. Securing and closing: Close the battery compartment securely and ensure that all screws are tight. Start the UPS and check that it recognizes the new battery and charges properly. Dispose of the old battery properly (at a battery recycling center or in accordance with environmental regulations).

! Note: Battery replacement should only be carried out by trained personnel to ensure safety !

Choosing the right UPS battery for your IT infrastructure

APC UPS batteries

APC offers high-quality UPS batteries for uninterruptible power supplies. They are specially developed for APC UPS systems and are characterized by reliability, long service life and easy maintenance. APC batteries are available in various capacities and are ideal for use in data centers, offices or private networks.

CyberPower UPS batteries

The UPS batteries from CyberPower are specially designed to ensure maximum reliability in the company's uninterruptible power supplies. They offer long-lasting performance, efficient power supply and wide compatibility. With different models, these batteries are suitable for both small office applications and demanding IT infrastructures.

multimatic UPS batteries

UPS batteries from multimatic provide a reliable power supply for uninterruptible power supply systems. They are known for their high performance, long service life and low maintenance requirements. With a robust design and high efficiency, they are ideal for critical applications in data centers, businesses and industrial environments.

Whether VRLA, AGM or lithium-ion - choosing the right battery for your UPS system is the key to continuous performance and long-term protection. Ensure regular maintenance and timely replacement to keep your systems up and running.

With high-quality solutions from APC, CyberPower and multimatic, which stand for the highest reliability and performance, we offer you a comprehensive selection that goes far beyond the products listed here. Invest in the protection of your IT today and secure the ideal UPS battery for your infrastructure - simply use our inquiry form.