UPS - Input load and wiring

[Guest_imported]

I have a fairly large network growing in my loft and am looking for a large UPS to support it. I was looking at the Compaq DELTEC 2400, but it has an input rating of 120v/22.0amp. The breaker for the circuit to hold this is 110v/15amp.

Now, I know a bit about electrical subjects, but my question revolves more around UPSs. Does the UPS constantly draw 22amps, or is that only during peak battery charge periods? Am I insane to attempt to hook this puppy up to my residential wiring?

Thanks.

-Jeff

 

[josepablomir]

This UPS is capable of powering loads of 2400 Volt-Amperes and, of course, smaller ones.
The input current, 22 amps, is telling you that the maximum power the UPS will drain from the electrical outlet will be 2640 Volt-Amperes or, of course less. The maximum power correspond to the “full load” condition (that is when the UPS is giving the full 2400 VA to the load). About the charge cycle, you don’t have to worry about that, it is considered in the input power requirements (2640 VA).
If you plan to install this UPS to your panel, you “must” replace the braker for a 30 amps one, and you have to make sure the wiring is capable of handling 30 amps (you need to have wire size 10 AWG). If you only replace the braker and leave smaller wiring (for example 14 or 12 AWG) you could produce a fire (when the current exceeds 15 or 20 amps, depending on the wiring).
I recommend you to call an electrician to check the wiring and make the replacement of the braker and the installation of the input outlet.

Regards,

Jose P. Mir
jpm@jpmir.net
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Jose P. Mir
jpm@jpmir.net