5 Advantages and Disadvantages of UPS | Drawbacks & Benefits of UPS

What is Uninterruptible Power Supply ?

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is an electronic device that receives power from the electrical outlet and stores in them so that devices connected to it can continue to function despite of a power failure. In short it acts as a protection unit to the system. 

What are the types of UPS ?

Depending on the power requirement, there are two types of UPS systems. Those are the Standby UPS and Line-interactive UPS. Due to its numerous benefits, today it is used in numerous workplaces as well as homes. Especially, it is a vital component if the environment uses some critical PC appliances. Although UPS plays a major role in backing up power, it aren't flawless. When using UPS, it is important to understand it's pros and cons.

In this article, I will be illustrating about 5 Advantages and Disadvantages of UPS | Drawbacks & Benefits of UPS. Through this post, you will know the pros and cons of using a UPS.

Let's get started,

Advantages of UPS

1. Installation

Installing a UPS system is considered to be an easy process. It does not require much space. In fact it can be easily fitted inside a small space. And also, connecting new devices here is not that difficult. UPS contain several ports that supports different devices.

2. Reliability

UPS is extremely responsive when it comes to power failure. Having a UPS system guarantees that there will be immediate power supply in the event of a power failure. There is no manual intervenes involved here. In the same way, the battery inside the UPS automatically charges up whenever there is power.

3. Consistency

When there is UPS connected to a system, it can ensure continuous power supply. For the normal operations, UPS will be able to supply power for about 6-8 hours. In a situation like long term power disruptions, UPS provides a chance for the user to safely shutdown their system. Whatever the case it is, the data losses going to happen because of a power failure can be effectively prevented by using a UPS.

4. Protection

Having a UPS system essentially means that it is going to be ultimate protection for your electrical devices. There are numerous circuits present on this device which constantly monitors the electricity levels. Whenever there is a bad power supply, the UPS immediately begins to provide power from the battery source. Not only power surges, a UPS system can effectively prevent spikes, dips and other outages.

5. Filtering

A type of UPS known as Line-interactive UPS ensures that there is clean flow of electricity to the connected devices. Whatever the power that comes into the UPS is filtered accordingly so that all of the abnormalities are removed. The end result is a system free of power failure.

Disadvantages of UPS

1. Cost

The major concern of UPS system is the cost involved in it. The battery used in the UPS usually makes it more expensive. This cost even adds up for corporates who need several UPS systems. Therefore, not all the users will be able to afford them.

2. Maintenance

Using a UPS system, also does bring many considerations because of the maintenance involved in it. This is even worse for corporates with large  number of UPS connections. A skilled electrician must be appointed to manage wiring systems and ensure error free services. Moreover, for a proper functioning of the UPS systems, it must be with sufficient ventilation since regularly emits fumes.

3. Durability

Since the battery is behind the functioning of a UPS system it is not made to last forever. Similar to other types of batteries it function degrades over time. A standard UPS can last for an average of 10 years after which the unit is going to die. The option to retrieve the UPS here is by replacing the battery. Hence, users should be ready to pay several bucks for the new batteries.

4. Device Protection

Since UPS is battery powered, it is not recommended to be used in appliances that require substantial amount of power. For an example, a UPS cannot be used as a backup source for an Air conditioner with high power consumption. Even the period of time the UPS can provide backup power is limited. Thus, if you reside in locations where there are long term power cuts, then UPS will not be the best option.

5. Power Consumption

Always a UPS system draws more power than a standalone device. The amount is significantly higher than the actual amount required by the device. This is because, the battery used in UPS should remain charged all the time. For this, it must be connected to a power outlet which contributes to greater amount of power wastage.