Many people rely on UPS units to protect their electronics during power outages, but there are plenty of misconceptions about how they work and what they can do. Let’s clear up some of the widespread myths surrounding UPS systems.

One widespread myth is that a UPS can keep your computer running for hours during a power outage. In reality, most entry-level UPS units only provide 3 to 10 minutes backup power. Their main purpose is not to keep you working indefinitely but to give you enough time to secure your files and avoid data loss. For extended runtime, you would need a a high-capacity industrial UPS, often used in critical infrastructure.

Another myth is that any power strip with surge protection is just as good as a UPS. This is not true. A basic surge protector only guards against electrical transients, but it does not provide power redundancy. During a blackout, your devices will lose power instantly. A UPS includes both surge protection and a battery, making it vastly superior when the power goes out.

Some believe that once a UPS is plugged in, it will fix every electrical problem without maintenance. This is false. UPS batteries weaken with age, typically lasting up to 60 months. If you don’t replace them, the unit may stop working during a crisis. Regular testing and maintenance are essential to ensure your UPS functions during emergencies.

There’s also a myth that you can plug high power appliances like refrigerators into a UPS. These devices draw excessive current and can overload the system to the UPS or the appliance. UPS units are designed for خرید یو پی اس low-wattage digital devices like monitors—not high-draw household tools.

Finally, some think that a UPS will clean up the power supply from the wall. While many UPS systems do offer power filtering, they don’t turn poor quality power into flawless AC. They can stabilize small dips and surges, but if your building has frequent brownouts, you may still need complementary systems like a standby generator.

Understanding what a UPS can and cannot do helps you choose the right system and use it effectively. Don’t rely on myths—educate yourself so your equipment stays protected when it matters most.