APC SC1500 Questions

[BillP]

I just recently ordered an "APC Smart-UPS SC 1500VA 120V - 2U Rackmount/Tower" for a home server (I didn't do to much research before buying, which I probably should have done) and was wondering if anyone knows if the fan on this UPS runs all the time. It's making me a very nervous after reading some posts on here about SUA models having a fan that runs all the time.

I was originally going to by the "APC BR1500LCD 1500VA 865 Watts 8 Outlets BACK-UPS RS" but I ended up buying this one instead. Is this a better quality UPS?

[BillP]

The fan not running seems to be associated with load. My load was only 26% and the fans never ran, but when I increased the load to over 50% the fans ran when going to battery. I also have no issues with my active PFC power supply. I really like this UPS.

[BillP]

I just recently ordered an "APC Smart-UPS SC 1500VA 120V - 2U Rackmount/Tower" for a home server (I didn't do to much research before buying, which I probably should have done) and was wondering if anyone knows if the fan on this UPS runs all the time. It's making me a very nervous after reading some posts on here about SUA models having a fan that runs all the time.

I was originally going to by the "APC BR1500LCD 1500VA 865 Watts 8 Outlets BACK-UPS RS" but I ended up buying this one instead. Is this a better quality UPS?

[Anonymous user]

Hi!

I have a similiar UPS (SUA1500I) and have the same problem:

http://forums.apc.com/spaces/7/ups-management-devices-powerchute-software/forums/general/5976/exp400...

The fan runs all the time, I put the UPS onto the floor to reduce the sound. When not using my PC, I switch the UPS completely off (brain dead), by cutting the power connection and holding the off-button until the UPS is off. I bought a special power switch which allows me to disconnect main power without removing the power chord from the wall outlet.

I really do not understand, who could built in a permanent running fan (which runs even when the UPS is switched off).

[voidstar_apc]

Cutting the power to the UPS on a regular basis may reduce the lifespan of your battery. This is because the lead-acid batteries within the UPS lasts longer when kept at a full charge; periodic discharges shorten their lifespan. For this reason, the UPS charges its batteries even while off.

Since your UPS is always operating, even while off, having the fans running ensures proper airflow to the temperature sensor.

[BillP · Accepted solution]

The fan runs to ensure everything is cool, including the battery. It's a safety measure, not a defect. We wouldn't want the battery to get too hot and start swelling would we? 🙂

Why does it make you nervous?

The BR1500LCD is a very similar model, only with an LCD screen and no smart-signaling capability. It also has a fan in it that - you guessed it - runs all the time.