Reduced runtime for no apparent reason

[Anonymous user]

I'm sure there is a logical reason, but I can't figure it out...
Unit is a SmartUPS 1400, about 3-4 yrs old. When new, the runtime was 91 minutes. The devices plugged into the unit have not changed since then. Until recently the runtime remained at 91 minutes. But recently, I noticed the runtime dropped to 18 minutes, even though no device changes have occurred. Yesterday I tried running a calibration, but received an error (sorry I don't remember the wording of the error). Today I replaced the battery (was still the original battery) with a new APC battery, but the runtime remains at 18 minutes. I'm not sure why the runtime decreased so dramatically. Should I try calibrating the new battery?

[EZ_Button_apc]

You probably do want to calibrate the battery.

However, how much of a load % do you have on the unit? You can compare with runtime charts from our website to compare how much runtime you should be getting. Your number should be relatively close to the 1500 in the runtime link below.

http://www.apc.com/products/runtime_for_extendedruntime.cfm?upsfamily=165

[Anonymous user]

I seem to have a very similar problem. I have two SMART 1500 RM UPS. They are both about the same age. The loads are both about 57%. The problem is that on one of them I am recieving a runtime error saying I have 5 minutes remaining. The Console application is reporting that I have a fully charged battery. I'm using the APC Powerchute Business Edition software, version 7.0.5. Any Suggestions?

[Anonymous user]

Post #2 was correct - you do want to do a battery calibration when the unit is new and hopefully has at least 25 to 30% load ( you can plug in a small heater to increase it to that level if needed)...them as the ups batteries age it has some reference point to adjust the backup time (internal constant) against. An uncalibrated ups - particularly the smaller smart-ups models - is a recipe for problems in my experience (I look after 200 of them).

Even after you replace the batteries on a "never-calibrated" ups the runtime may report erroneously low...IE less than 5 mins runtime ...this will get you alarms and the battery bargraph will flash. When a self-test happens you may even get "no batteries installed" errors !...(which will clear)....I;ve seen that on SU14002U models I look after.

If a calibration doesn't fix the problem, the units internal battery constant may need to be corrected. To do this you can either try calling tech-support to get them to send you a "Cal-key", or if you are adventurous you can try the "apcfix.exe" (google search) to change it - although you need to know what the correct constant value is first.

Dave

[TheNotoriousKMP_apc]

For a 1500rm2u, a software calibration is 100% efficient.

Calibration keys are for 3G SUXXXX (where X is the VA capacity) model numbers only.

[Anonymous user · Accepted solution]

Running it down the ground works well on the SU1400NET.

First disable beeps in powerchute and disconnec the interface cable.

Connect it through a switched powerstrip/surge protector.

Charge overnight, connect a 300W work light/torchiere (a very common load around the house) or 3 100W light bulbs.

Turn on the light and kill power to UPS with the strip and let it run until it shuts off. Ignore any warning tones.

The runtime reported should be quite close to the runtime you observe during the test. If not, call in support for Calkey.