Plugging a UPS into a Surge Protector

[mark617_apc]

This was originally posted on APC forums on 11/30/2013

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I currently have an SMT 1500 UPS. I have read and searched varying discussions, including the FAQ, which advise against plugging a UPS into a surge protector. But, the reasons given in the FAQ are vague. Most online discussions find no issue with doing so, although the reasons given are anecdotal or abstract. The FAQ mentions power could be drawn away from the UPS. But, if the UPS is the only thing plugged into the surge protector, what is the issue? The FAQ also mentions clean power. Would there be some disturbance via the surge protector due to the EMI / RFI noise filtering? Again, the searches and FAQ are helpful, but I am hoping for a definitive "yes" or "no" answer, as well as rationale for said reasons.

I wanted to run my SMT 1500 into something like the APC P11VNT3. The extra surge protection would be nice in my area. I would rather sacrifice the surge protector as opposed to the UPS, for obvious price reasons. Is said surge protector good enough / compatible with the SMT 1500 (assuming plugging only the UPS into the surge protector is deemed acceptable)?

I have seen comments from 2010 searches which suggest ONLY a UPS into a surge protector should be fine (APC knowledge base article 1372 addresses this). Again, my hope is to simply make sure. And, if I am being overly redundant, feel free to point that out as well!

Thank you,
Mark

[BillP]

This reply was originally posted by Joe on APC forums on 12/1/2013

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I think rational thought and practice should prevail here.  I use protected power strips, APC branded, on the output of both my SMT3000 and my SMX1500RM2U and don't have any issues and I will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.  Of course, I reserve the right to change my opinion if a direct hit or other large surge causes damage. YMMV.

[mark617_apc · Accepted solution]

This was originally posted on APC forums on 12/1/2013

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Fair enough. On the output side, I have read just as many affirming posts as negating ones. But, since I am not doing that, it is not an issue.

I am speaking wholly on the input side of things.

Wall Outlet -----> Surge Protector (ONLY UPS plugged into unit; all other plugs empty) -----> UPS (SMT 1500) -----> Five components plugged into the UPS

Like you have stated, I too feel like it is simply a matter of practicality. But, my nature is to look for affirmation.

One other question; APC's website states all Surge Arrest units have Catastrophic Protection (power is cut when MOVs / protection are no longer in working order). Yet, when I read the actual PDF manuals, only the Net 8 unit doesn't have a disclaimer stating that power to load will continue once protection ceases (now unprotected devices). So, which is it?