FAQ’s

Why do you need a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)?

A UPS protects your business from power cuts and voltage fluctuations. It prevents data loss and equipment damage during sudden outages, regulates voltage spikes and dips that wear down electronics over time, keeps critical operations running without interruption, bridges the gap until generators activate, and safeguards expensive equipment investments like servers and medical devices.

How do I choose the right UPS capacity for my business?

Add up the total wattage of the equipment you need to protect, then add 20-30% headroom for future growth. For critical loads such as servers and medical devices, always round up rather than down. Alfa Energy Tech can run a load assessment to size this precisely for your site.

What’s the difference between online, line-interactive, and offline UPS?

Offline (standby) UPS switches to battery only when power fails and suits basic office equipment. Line-interactive UPS regulates voltage without switching to battery, suiting environments with frequent fluctuations. Online (double-conversion) UPS provides continuous, zero-transfer-time power and is the standard for data centers, hospitals, and airlines.

How long can a UPS power my equipment during an outage?

Runtime depends on battery capacity and connected load, typically 5-30 minutes for standard units. That is long enough to bridge to a generator or complete a safe shutdown. Extended battery modules are available for longer runtime needs.

Do I need a UPS if I already have a generator?

Yes. Generators take 10-30 seconds to start and stabilize. A UPS covers that exact gap instantly, so equipment never loses power. The two work together, not as substitutes.

How often does UPS battery need to be replaced?

Typically every 3-5 years, depending on usage, load, and ambient temperature. Regular maintenance checks catch battery degradation before it causes an outage.

Can a UPS protect against both power cuts and voltage spikes?

Yes, a UPS conditions incoming power by correcting spikes, sags, and surges, in addition to providing battery backup during a full outage. This dual protection is why UPS units outperform simple surge protectors.

What industries in Sri Lanka rely most on UPS systems?

Aviation, banking, telecom, healthcare, and manufacturing rely most on UPS systems, since downtime in these industries is costly or safety-critical.