Smart-UPS SMT2200I halved expected runtime

[Anonymous user]

Hi APC,

I purchased an SMT2200I a week ago, I notice that it only shows half of the expected runtime in a given load according to the chart on the APC website. I have done the following:

1. Researched on similar issues, one very similar I found HERE, tried the suggestions, didn't work.

2. Letting it charge for at least 24 hours

3. Self-Test

4. Runtime Calibration (at 100% charge, at 32-35% load so within +/-5%, and let it recharge for 24 hours afterwards)

5. Upgraded firmware (was 9.3, now 9.4). The initial reason I upgraded the firmware was because my SMT2200 fan wouldn't stop spinning even several hours after it charged to 100%. Several mins full speed spin, then low speed for about 10 seconds, then back to full speed for several minutes, repeat forever. After upgrading to 9.4, it seems to be fine.

6. Manual calibration after 24 hours on charge, then drain the UPS with 33-35% load till it switched off, followed by another 24 hour recharge

Currently the UPS is showing showing:

OnLine, Green Mode, 100% battery, 54.5V battery, 277W, 52 minutes.... whereas according to the chart, I should be seeing 109 mins

This halved runtime has not changed after calibrations, didn't improve, didn't get worse.

Eventhough I purchased this a week ago, I can see on the UPS test receipt, it Passed all tests on 08/06/2016. So basically I have purchased a UPS that has been on the shop's storage for at least a year (could be 8th of June, could be 6th of August 2016). Would the batteries have degraded in that period eventhough they were not attached?

Thank you for your help.

[BillP]

If they deeply discharged they will go bad, if they had more than 25% when you got them they should be fine. You really should phone support as they can action a solution on the spot, ie send a new battery pack if they deem yours faulty. They would cross ship so you get the new then send the old.

[Anonymous user]

The batteries had plenty of charge when I purchased the UPS, because we power-up tested it. It was around 60-70% I think, can't remember exactly.

I guess I can try calling them up, but thought I try here first in case there is a solution. I'm located in Jakarta, Indonesia, doubt they have a cross-ship service.

[Anonymous user]

I will try to keep adding bits of information/findings as I go along.

While the batteries reach 54.5V after 24 hours of charging, as soon as I run a test, voltage will drop to 52.1V.

I'm a bit reluctant to perform calibrations too often as I read somewhere performing calibrations should be done once every 6 months. I've done several calibrations in the past week I worry that the battery will degrade much quicker.

[BillP]

The drop in voltage is normal due to the load.

[Anonymous user · Accepted solution]

Yeah, I expected the voltage to drop, thought I put that info in anyway in case it leads to other things.

I've re-flashed the latest firmware, and performed Factory Reset, still no change.

Shame that I paid for an SMT2200 but performs like an SMT1500.

Another annoying thing is one of the four metal clips that hold the door for the batteries already broken on the 2nd day. The battery door hangs slightly out now due to that.