When you think of companies that need to protect their data and million-dollar equipment, you may think of Google, Meta, and leading manufacturing businesses. However, companies of all sizes must consider the value of complete backup power solutions, including implementing an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system.
While the size of your UPS system may not be as significant as larger companies, as a small-to-medium-sized business, this system could save your company — especially since you may not have the budget to recover from the potential consequences of power disturbances.
Even short power outages can disrupt operations, damage equipment, lead to lost data, and affect sales. Here’s what to consider to protect yourself and your business’s growth.
Power Reliability Is Critical for Small Businesses
Regardless of size, virtually every business relies on power to complete day-to-day operations – and most have zero margin for power loss.
While larger companies often suffer financially, power outages can devastate small businesses, as recovery can be more challenging. Whether it’s lost revenue, wasted product, or a tarnished reputation, bouncing back can be tough once the power comes back on, so you must take a proactive approach to ensure you have the proper backup power.
Take an independent grocery store, for example. In 2019, a Pennsylvania supermarket lost power for over a day due to high winds, resulting in $30,000 in lost merchandise. For a small-scale business, that amount of loss is devastating. A backup power solution would have kept the fridges and freezers running.
So, what are your options regarding a UPS system that ensures business continuity?
What UPS System Is Best for Your SMB?
When you invest in a reliable UPS system, you help ensure that computers and other equipment can shut down safely during an outage. Alternatively, a UPS will bridge the power gap, allowing alternative backup power systems to kick in, such as a generator or battery energy storage system (BESS)
But it’s not as simple as deciding if you need a UPS system. You should consider different types of UPS systems to find one that meets your needs and budget. All options will protect against power failure, surges, and sags, but there are slight differences.
- Standby: Also known as an offline UPS, this option provides entry-level power protection. There can be a slight power break, ranging from two to ten milliseconds. The practical range is 0-1.5 (kVA).
- Line-interactive: This system may take two to four milliseconds to transfer line power to battery power, which is often fast enough to protect sensitive equipment. Often rated up to 5 (kVA).
- Online: With these systems, there is no transfer time. The inverter already supplies the connected load in the event of an outage, so it’s recommended for data centers, hospitals, large facilities, etc. The practical range is 5-5000 (kVA).
For most SMBs, a standby or line-interactive UPS is often enough. Standby systems are the most affordable, and they’re highly efficient. However, depending on your power load, they may not offer the level of protection you seek. A small office could likely get away with this option, but most SMBs opt for a line-interactive or even an online UPS system.
Related: Factors to Consider When Selecting a UPS Backup System
Regular Maintenance Matters
Regular maintenance is critical if you are considering a UPS system or already have one.
When investing in a UPS system, make sure it’s well-maintained, monitored, and incorporated into a more complete business continuity plan to ensure long-term reliability. Scalability and redundancy can be discussed with your critical backup power provider and must be considered during maintenance. For example, setting up one more UPS in parallel can help safeguard your company if one fails or maintenance is required.
Unsure Which Is Best? Resellers Are Valuable Partners
Knowing which option is right for your business can be challenging, so it’s imperative to seek expert advice.
In addition to understanding your power load and any regulations that may apply to you, you may want to discuss tailored solutions or financing options. Working with an end-to-end service provider means you can easily access complete backup power solutions. From design and installation to testing, monitoring, and maintenance, a partner like Global Power Supply (GPS) can help you protect yourself during the next outage.
Learn more: Why GPS Is Your One-Stop Shop for All Power System Needs
GPS Can Help
As extreme weather events increase in frequency and severity, it’s time to consider how unplanned outages would affect your business.
Choosing the right UPS system can be tough, so GPS is here to help ensure you have a complete and reliable backup power solution. You can discuss your options, including UPS rentals, with the GPS team to find the right fit for your unique needs and power requirements.
A site survey is a great way to determine what is best for your business. Alternatively, you can contact the GPS team with any questions. The GPS team looks forward to helping you gain the peace of mind you need to protect your business for years to come. Call us today!