Can a UPS sit around unused?

[Anonymous user]

I am needing to have an extra UPS around to keep some equipment up and running for when the batteries fail. What happens to the batteries if they sit unused? Should I rotate the UPS in and out of service?
Thanks.

[Anonymous user]

Hello;

The batteries will go dead over time and if they sit dead too long they can become unusable
(Just ask anyone who's ever bought a used car that sat for a really long time and had to get a new battery for it)

it's best to keep it at least plugged in to keep a charge on the battery packs

cheers

[Anonymous user]

If batteries are kept unused for too long, let's say, one year without being charged from time to time, it will possible get worn out. If you need to keep the unit unused, at least plug it to the wall outlet for 12 to 16 hours every 3 to 6 months. Even so, the batteries are still getting old as the months pass, it will eventually get useless after a few years.

If the temperature where the batteries are kept is too high or too low, the batteries will wear out quicker. Keep them at 15 to 25C.

[BillP · Accepted solution]

Also it is best practice to store the batteries close to 20C and disconnected from the UPS. Some UPSs, such as Smart-UPS, can actively drain the batteries while unplugged to run their internal logic systems.