UPS Battery Backup - Do Not Delay Shutdown Any Longer Than Needed

[Franko914]

...speaking from experience...

If you use a utility/software or Windows service to monitor/manage your Uninterruptible Power Supply, take note: set the threshold so that the system shuts down in an orderly manner ASAP.

The sealed lead-acid units used in battery backup systems, like automotive lead-acid batteries, will not return to 100% if drained to below 80-75% of its capacity.

 

[SfcJones]

never knew that, That is good info. Any article to point to what type/brand of batteries?

 

[Franko914]

The following web page is specific to prolonging the life/usage of lead-acid batteries, a term applicable to:

- flooded lead-acid batteries
- absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries
- gel batteries

Some notes:

- first type, also referred to as vented batteries, requires regular addition of electrolyte
- latter two, also referred to as sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries, do not require addition of electrolye, but have a built-in pressure relief valve for safety
- battery backup systems, typically use AGMs
- first type outlasts the latter two in longevity/life span (up to 10 years with proper/regular maintenance vs. up to 5 years maintenance-free)

http://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/how_to_restore_and_prolong_lead_acid_batteries

Topics on the left column touch on other types of batteries.