How long do UPS batteries last?

Most UPS batteries last between 3 to 5 years, depending on maintenance and environmental conditions.

How do I choose the right UPS battery?

The right UPS battery depends on power requirements, backup time needed, and budget. Lithium-ion batteries last longer than lead-acid batteries.

Technical FAQ

What is a Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery?

A Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) battery, also known as a Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA) battery, is designed to be maintenance-free, leak-proof, and position-insensitive. It features a safety vent that releases excess gas if internal pressure becomes too high.

SLA batteries are widely used across various applications, including:

Home alarm and backup systems
Generators
Flashlights and spotlights
Exercise equipment
Motorcycles and ATVs
Toys and more

These versatile batteries are valued for their reliability and durability in both consumer and industrial settings.

What are Volts and Amp-Hours (e.g., 12V – 20Ah)?

Every battery is rated based on two key factors: voltage (V) and amp-hours (Ah).

Voltage (V): This measures the battery’s electrical potential. Common battery types include 2V, 4V, 6V, 8V, 12V, and 24V.
Amp-Hours (Ah): This indicates how much energy the battery can store, essentially reflecting how long the battery can supply a specific amount of current before it needs recharging.

Together, these ratings help determine the battery’s capacity and suitability for various applications.

Does My Replacement Battery’s Capacity (Ah) Need to Match the Original? How Do I Choose?

Not always. If the battery’s physical dimensions allow it, you can upgrade to a higher capacity (Ah) battery for longer runtime. For example, a device using a 12V 7.2Ah battery can be upgraded to a 12V 9Ah battery without issue, as long as it fits.

However, voltage (V) must match exactly. In the example above, the replacement battery must be 12V, even if the amp-hour rating changes. Using a different voltage could damage your device.

How Long Do SLA Batteries Typically Last?

Most Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) batteries have a lifespan of three to five years, depending on factors such as the application, charging method, and operating temperature. They typically last for 300 to 500 cycles.

To maximize battery life, always charge the battery before storage. Storing an SLA battery in a partially charged or discharged state can cause permanent damage.

What is the Shelf Life of a Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery?

SLA batteries naturally discharge over time, typically self-discharging at around 3% per month. If not periodically recharged, they may never regain full capacity. It is recommended to check and charge every three months and never store for more than six months without recharging. Store SLA batteries in a cool, dry place. Under proper storage conditions (around 25°C), they can last 6 months to 1 year on the shelf.

What is “Memory Effect”?

SLA batteries do not experience memory effect. Memory effect, also known as "lazy battery effect," occurs in some rechargeable batteries—primarily older NiCd batteries—that lose capacity when recharged without being fully discharged first.

For SLA batteries:

Never fully discharge them.
Always recharge after use to extend battery life. Frequent discharges reduce longevity, while maintaining a full charge helps them last longer.

My Sealed Lead Acid Battery is Bloated or Swollen. What Should I Do?

If an SLA battery is swollen or bloated, immediately remove it from the device. Swelling typically results from overcharging, which causes overheating. This can lead to a dangerous condition known as thermal runaway, where the battery heats up and accepts more current, accelerating the heat cycle.

Swollen batteries are not safe for use and must be recycled at a local battery recycling facility. Replace the damaged battery as soon as possible.

How Long Will My Battery Run?

Battery runtime depends on the power demands of the equipment, as well as the battery’s capacity and usage conditions. Every application is different, so it’s best to contact your device’s manufacturer for an accurate estimate based on the specified battery.

What are “Smart” and “Dumb” Batteries?

Smart Batteries: Contain internal circuit boards that communicate with the device or UPS to monitor performance, output voltage, and temperature.
Dumb Batteries: Do not have this monitoring capability and simply provide power without additional feedback.

Are the Sealed Lead Acid Batteries You Sell Rechargeable?

Yes, all SLA batteries sold are rechargeable.

My System Uses 4 Sealed Lead Acid Batteries. Can I Replace Just One?

No, it’s recommended to replace all four batteries at the same time. Replacing just one will lead to premature failure of the new battery because the older batteries can damage it. Even if the other batteries aren’t completely dead, they are likely degraded and will soon fail as well. To maximize the life of your system, replace all the batteries with new ones at once.