faq
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered the most common questions so you can find quick and clear answers. And if you still have any doubts, contact us—we’ll be happy to help.
An UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), or SAI (Uninterruptible Power System) in Spanish, is a device that provides electrical power in the event of a power outage, thanks to the batteries it contains.
It also regulates the electrical flow, controlling voltage fluctuations (spikes) in the power grid and eliminating electrical harmonics.
These devices are commonly used to protect computers, telecommunications equipment, and any type of electrical equipment for which an unexpected power interruption or power surge could cause data loss or even irreparable damage.
An AVR (short for Automatic Voltage Regulator) is a voltage regulator, that is, a device that accepts a variable input voltage but provides a constant output voltage. It regulates the electrical flow, controlling voltage fluctuations (spikes) in the power grid, thereby protecting the equipment connected to the AVR from overvoltage and low-voltage spikes.
Unlike UPSs, AVRs do not contain batteries that allow devices to continue operating in the event of a power outage.
There are three different types of UPS: Offline, Line-Interactive, and Online.
In an Offline UPS, devices are powered by the mains electricity. The UPS activates when a power failure occurs, at which point it almost instantly supplies power from its own batteries.
Application
Areas with few disturbances and a high-quality power grid
Diagram
The Line-Interactive UPS is similar to the Offline UPS but includes a special microprocessor that controls grid fluctuations within ±15%, regulating the output voltage (Buck/Boost effect) without discharging the batteries. When a power outage occurs, the batteries automatically take over.
Application
From PCs to servers, including small networks, home offices, and offices…
Diagram
An Online UPS, also called a double-conversion UPS, continuously provides electrical power from its batteries while they are being charged from the mains. In this way, it offers full protection against all power-related issues.
Application
Any critical and essential IT installation (data networks, servers, telecommunications, industry…)
Diagram
Depending on the type of available electrical power and the type of load you want to protect, it is recommended to use the following types of UPS:
Online UPS: In areas with an unstable electrical system, with frequent voltage fluctuations and outages.
For industrial applications and protection of critical equipment.
Offline UPS: Areas with few electrical disturbances and a high-quality power grid.
For home use or small office applications.
Line-Interactive UPS: Areas experiencing voltage fluctuations, an unstable power grid, or frequent stormy periods.
For small home networks, home offices, or small offices, etc.
The unit used to measure a UPS’s capacity is the Volt-Ampere (VA), also called “apparent power.” However, we also provide the capacity in Watts, which is the “active power,” so that you can easily choose the UPS that best meets your needs.
This is a reference table with the estimated power consumption of the most common devices and systems:
Depending on the size and type of UPS, more or less load can be connected. The technical datasheets indicate the maximum capacity values in both Watts (W) and Volt-Amperes (VA). It is recommended that the load connected to the UPS does not exceed 70% of its maximum capacity. Manufacturers typically use Watts to measure the power consumption of their devices.
It is important to note that laser printers should NEVER be connected to a UPS, as the power surges they generate when starting up or printing can damage the UPS.
The time a UPS can supply power to connected devices during a power outage is called the autonomy time. In technical datasheets, it is expressed in minutes and typically applies to a load of approximately 50%.
If more autonomy time is needed, and as long as the UPS’s charging system allows it, additional batteries can be added.
By installing the software on your computer and connecting the PC to the UPS via USB or RS-232 ports, you enable communication between the UPS and your computer. This allows you to schedule system shutdowns and monitor all its parameters (battery capacity, input and output voltages and frequencies, etc.). You can not only control the UPS connected to your PC but also manage the entire network, including remote control via the Internet. The software is compatible with most existing operating systems.
Additionally, some UPSs can be connected to an SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) module, a system that facilitates the exchange of management information between devices on an IP network and allows administrators to monitor the operation of a network and its UPSs.
Although a UPS does not require professional maintenance, it is necessary to follow certain guidelines for proper operation and to maximize its lifespan.
Location and storage conditions
Install the UPS in a protected area where it is not exposed to humidity or extreme temperature changes, free from excessive dust, and with adequate airflow. Place the UPS at least 10 cm away from other units to avoid interference. Do NOT use the UPS when the temperature and humidity conditions are outside the specified limits. (See the specifications to check these limits)
Before storing it, charge the battery for 5 hours. Keep the UPS protected and in an upright position, in a dry and cool place.
Do not store the unit for more than 3 months without connecting it to the mains power.
During storage, recharge the battery according to the following table:
| Storage temperature | Recharge frequency | Charging duration |
| -25°C – 40°C | Every 3 months | 1–2 hours |
| 40°C – 45°C | Every 2 months | 1–2 hours |
Connection to the mains and charging
For best results, we recommend charging the battery for at least 4 hours before using it for the first time. The UPS charges its battery while connected to the mains power.
Occasionally discharge the battery on Offline and Line-Interactive models. It is recommended to do this once a month or every two months. The simplest way to discharge it is to turn on the UPS without connecting it to the mains power.
Load capacity
Do not overload the UPS. The recommended maximum load is 70%-75% of the UPS’s capacity, with an ideal load of 50%-60% of the supported capacity.
Do not connect household electronic devices (such as fans) or laser printers. They could cause damage to the UPS.
Cleaning
For equipment with fans, it is advisable to periodically check their condition. With the UPS turned off and disconnected from the mains power, vacuum the fans from the outside of the UPS only; the UPS should never be opened for cleaning.
| CAUTION: NEVER connect a laser printer or scanner to the UPS unit. It could damage the unit. |
Most UPSs can last more than 5 years in use, but it is recommended to replace the batteries after approximately 3 years. It should be noted that battery life decreases if they are not in use. Therefore, if the UPS is stored without being used, it is recommended to periodically charge and discharge the batteries. In large equipment, the lifespan increases and can reach 10 or even 20 years.
The warranty, depending on the model, is 2 or 3 years.
Surge protectors, AVRs, Offline and Line-Interactive UPSs, and Online UPSs up to 3 kVA intended for end users have a 3-year warranty on electronics and a 2-year warranty on batteries, provided they are used under normal conditions. It is important to consider that batteries are consumables, and those subjected to an excessive number of charge and discharge cycles or used in conditions other than those prescribed for UPS operation will be excluded from the warranty.
Online UPSs from 3 kVA and above, intended for the industrial sector, have a 2-year warranty on both electronics and batteries. It is important to consider that batteries are consumables, and those subjected to an excessive number of charge and discharge cycles or used in conditions other than those prescribed for UPS operation will be excluded from the warranty.
This warranty includes replacements and repairs, provided that the fault is not due to misuse of the UPS, inadequate maintenance, or natural phenomena.
The warranty includes transportation of the UPS to the LAPARA service center for repair and return to the customer whenever necessary and justified. It is important to note that an independent transport agency will be sent to collect the faulty equipment. Sin embargo, si por circunstancias externas de fuerza mayor no es posible realizar la recogida, los plazos podrían extenderse. The transport agency will make an initial collection attempt and, if you are not available, a second attempt will be scheduled. After the second failed attempt, the customer must send us the faulty UPS at their own expense.
The maximum repair timeframe is one month from the start of the warranty process; however, in most cases, the repair time does not exceed 10 days.
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