It goes without saying that every commercial building and residence needs a constant power supply 24/7, 365. Fortunately, our American infrastructure generally ensures that that’s the case. The bad news is that an electrical storm or mishaps at the electric company can cause power outages or surges—short-term high voltages over 110 percent of normal capacity—that destroy electronic devices.
Fortunately, there are two possible lines of defense against surges and blackouts: uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems and surge suppressors. This post will cover everything you need to know about both devices.
What is a UPS system?
UPS systems work independently from your main power supply and act as a backup power source in the event of a power outage. The built-in battery provides a constant power supply throughout your building until the electric company is able to restore service—or at least until you’re able to back up all computer data.
As an added bonus, an uninterruptible power supply system also protects your company from an electrical surge that may destroy electrical equipment throughout the building.
A UPS system isn’t exactly cheap, but any business owner or property manager should consider installing one to prevent disruptions during an outage.
What is a surge suppressor?
While a UPS system provides power during an outage, a surge suppressor only protects your building’s electrical equipment in the event of a voltage spike. These systems work by diffusing excess electrical power to ensure your devices only receive the power necessary to continue normal operations.
Unlike residential suppressors that plug directly into a wall outlet, surge suppressors for large facilities are mounted directly to the building’s circuit breakers.
What is the best way to protect my facility?
Because a UPS system doesn’t provide complete surge protection and a suppressor doesn’t ensure your company has power during a blackout, we recommend installing both systems. Again, springing for installation will be a big investment, but it pays off in the long run.
By equipping your facility with a surge suppressor and a UPS system, you can rest easy knowing you’ll be completely protected during a storm or if there’s a problem at the power plant.
Hire Ham’s Electric, Inc. today
There’s no better choice than Ham’s Electric, Inc. when it comes to installing power protection equipment at your facility. Here are a few reasons to work with us:
- Reliable installation: Whether you need a UPS system, a surge suppressor or both, you can trust us to install it correctly the first time.
- Experience in all industries: We have experience working in all sorts of different industries. From protecting hospitals to data centers and even single computers, there’s nothing we haven’t seen or done.
- Emergency service available: Electrical outages don’t always happen during normal business hours, which is why we’re always on call. Feel free to contact us at any hour of the day or night to service your building.
Whether you need to install an uninterruptible power supply system or handle an electrical emergency, just give us a call. We’re standing by to assist 24/7!