Replace Batteries

[Uncle Al]

If anyone has operated a UPS on their computer, have it 'go out' and you get a new one,
try taking it to Batteries+Plus. I don't work for them but have used their services several
times. Have had my cordless power tools battery packs rebuilt by them and saved a ton
of $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. Anyway, I just had my 2nd UPS 'go out'. I took my original and
the newest one down to Batteries+Plus. They replaced the battery for $40.00 + tax on
each unit. That $80.00 was less than what I spent on each UPS. So, for 10 years the
replacement cost of my UPS's was under $8.00 per year.
Not to bad!

Uncle Al

[hoborob]

I will wish the best for you Uncle Al. I had a dealing with batteries plus where they were to rebuild a battery for me. They components used were 2nd rate and would not even hold a charge. When I asked about that they said they used a cheaper battery as using the manufacturers battery would have cost a lot more. When asked about the cost of using the correct parts I found I could buy brand new batteries for 25% less than they would have charged for a rebuild. Needless to say I'll not send any business their way much less use them again.

[Big and Bashful]

Why not just open the UPS up to identify the bstteries, then go on line and order replacements from a reasonable dealer?

[crfriend]

Why not just open the UPS up to identify the bstteries, then go on line and order replacements from a reasonable dealer?

The problem is not so much as finding a dealer with a good reputation, it's finding a dealer who will avoid 3rd rate Chinese junk -- that's your problem.

Good batteries and components tend to be expensive, and as the US economy continues to spiral down the tubes thanks to wealth-hoarding by the elites few can afford good stuff any longer so places stop stocking it. I replaced the internal batteries on two UPSes a couple of years ago. The batteries in one died within 6 months and took the unit with them, and the battery in the other was dead within 18 months. Chinese batteries all, brand name "Werker" (they didn't for long) from Batteries Plus. A look for the brand name results in much rubbish, but not a lot of good being said by unpaid parties.

So rather than paying $75 for something that should last 3 years (and then have the expense of "recycling" (read, getting shipped back to China or to Africa, to be broken up in the open atmosphere frequently by unprotected women and children)) I've given up.

[hoborob]

I would also suggest an alternate source for the batteries used in the UPS units. Most are Gel-Cell batteries and once you have the amp-hour rating go to a boat or marine supply store and find the same battery used for boats. These are normally American made and higher quality than you can find in other locations. The marine grade batteries are made to withstand high moisture environments and will last longer than those not made to these specifications.

[Big and Bashful]

Marine suppliers are a good source, oh and not all Chinese products are rubbish, I have bought rechargeable lithium cells for high powered torches. Those batteries were excellent and put out enough current to keep the torch going, a 7 CREE LED torch is very hungry for power and only certain high current batteries are useable. I know you are looking for a very different type of battery but with a bit of research on EBay and by avoiding buying the cheapest options you should be able to find suitable batteries, my boat batteries also came from EBay and seem to be working well.