Updated 3 February 2025
If you own a business or service practice, an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) system is essential to prevent downtime and data loss, especially considering Eskom’s unstable power grid.
Understanding Different UPS Technologies
UPS units are available in several different technologies. Choosing the right one depends on your power requirements and backup needs.
Offline UPS (Standby UPS)
The most basic and cost-effective technology is the offline UPS, designed for small internal batteries like 7Ah or 9Ah. These units provide short runtimes, allowing connected devices to be safely shut down when the mains supply fails. The UPS remains off and only switches on when power is lost, with a switching time of a few milliseconds. It is suitable for general-purpose computers and DC power supplies.
Line-Interactive UPS
A step up in technology and price is the line-interactive UPS, where the inverter is always on but does not supply power to the load continuously. Instead, it follows the mains supply and takes over instantly when power fails, offering a faster switch-over time than offline units. These UPS systems typically include a buck/boost feature to regulate voltage fluctuations without relying on the battery. They are available from 1,000VA upwards but are best used below 3,000VA.
Both offline and line-interactive UPS systems struggle when powered by generators and are not ideal for long-run applications. Their small rectifiers and inverters are not designed for continuous full-load operation without overheating.
Online Double-Conversion UPS
The most advanced and reliable UPS technology is the online double-conversion UPS. This system rectifies mains power to DC, simultaneously charging the battery and supplying power to the inverter. The inverter then converts DC power back to clean sinewave AC power, ensuring continuous and stable energy for critical loads.
For added reliability, systems above 3kVA should include a manual bypass switch. These larger UPS models require hard-wiring rather than plug-and-play connections.
How to Choose the Right Battery for Your UPS
The right battery must match the UPS technology, recharge capacity, and power requirements. Several factors should be considered:
UPS Power Capacity – Ensure the battery can handle the required load.
Output Waveform – Sinewave output is crucial for sensitive electronics.
Surge Protection – Protects against sudden voltage spikes.
Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) – Maintains stable voltage levels.
Types of Batteries for UPS Systems
Lead-Acid Batteries
Valve-Regulated Lead-Acid (VRLA) batteries have been a proven technology for decades. They offer high discharge rates, excellent cycling ability, and compact storage capacity. However, newer technologies are emerging, providing alternative solutions for UPS backup power.
Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-based batteries are becoming more popular due to their lightweight design, longer life cycles, and higher energy density. However, they have drawbacks:
Fire Risk – Lithium batteries are prone to thermal runaway.
Non-Recyclable in South Africa – Disposal and sustainability remain challenges.
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) Batteries
LiFePO4 batteries are a safer variant of lithium-ion technology. They offer enhanced stability, a longer lifespan, and better thermal performance, making them a viable alternative for UPS applications.
Nickel-Zinc (NiZn) Batteries
An emerging contender in the UPS battery market is Nickel-Zinc (NiZn) technology. These batteries offer:
Higher power density – Up to twice that of lead-acid batteries.
Faster recharge rates – Ideal for mission-critical systems.
Improved thermal stability – Suitable for high-temperature environments.
Reduced sulfation issues – Ensuring long-term performance.
However, NiZn technology is still new and relatively untested in high-ampere-hour UPS applications. Additionally, recyclability remains a challenge in Africa.
High-Rate UPS Batteries for Instant Power Transfer
High-rate batteries are specifically designed for applications where an immediate and powerful energy discharge is required, making them an excellent choice for UPS systems. Unlike deep-cycle batteries, which provide sustained power over long periods, high-rate batteries prioritize rapid energy transfer to prevent downtime during outages. Built with absorbent glass mat (AGM) technology, they optimize electron movement for fast response times, ensuring that connected equipment remains operational without interruption. While they may have a shorter lifespan due to their intense discharge cycles, high-rate batteries excel in critical environments where immediate power availability is non-negotiable. To learn more about high-rate UPS batteries, read our blog on the subject.
Final Thoughts on Protecting Your Business with the Right UPS Battery
Selecting the correct UPS battery is crucial to ensuring uninterrupted power and safeguarding critical systems. Whether for banking, commercial operations, IT data centres, emergency lighting, security, industrial, medical, telecoms, education, or home offices, a properly matched UPS and battery combination is essential.
A UPS provides critical backup power to safely shut down IT systems, prevent data loss, and support ongoing operations with a generator switch-over.
For expert advice, speak to Standby Systems. Our highly skilled technical team is available to answer all your UPS and battery-related questions.
Contact us
Phone: 011 794 2541 | 011 794 3406
WhatsApp: 082 450 2361
View our battery range here