Important considerations when buying and using a UPS backup system

A UPS system is intended to do the following:

1. Protect the connected inverter load against power failures of all types, whether short or extended
2. Protect the connected inverter load against surges in the supply grid
3. Ensure inverter load is kept running all the time and prevent the user from losing money.

Although the UPS and its functions are clear, there are other factors that should be taken into consideration when buying a UPS:

1. Quality of build
   Poor quality builds will use cheap capacitors and fans that will require more frequent replacement leading to a higher long-term cost of ownership than higher quality brands such as Riello using high-end components.
2. UPS brand reputation in the market
   Stay with well known top 5 in the world names like Riello UPS https://www.riello-ups.com/ from Standby Systems www.standbysystems.co.za

3. Battery type and quality
   Use proven and recyclable locally technology like ELITE batteries https://standbysystems.co.za/ups_products/ups-vrla-batteries/
4. Type of environment the UPS is to be installed in
   Stay away from high humidity and high-temperature environments. They are not good for electronics or battery service life.

5. Local support structure, spares holding and in-house repairs by the supplier like Standby Systems have to offer.
6. Availability of extended warranty options up to 5 years.

7. Battery charger capability if looking for a cyclic application to cover rolling blackouts.
8. Available communications and monitoring/reporting – Remote monitoring capabilities of the UPS over your network, through SNMP version 3, Modbus, JBUS, or any other communication highway.