Optimising Power Resilience in Network Closets & IDF Rooms

When it comes to safeguarding your critical network infrastructure—like IDFs or remote network closets—don’t overlook the unsung hero: the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). Eaton's guide outlines 10 essential tips to help you make the right selection. Let’s break it down with practical insights, aligned to Indigi Power & Cooling’s expertise in precision-engineered electrical environments.

1. Choose the Right UPS Form Factor

• Rackmount (1U–3U): Ideal for integration into standard server racks—position them low in the rack to support external battery packs and maintain stability 

• Wall-mount: Perfect for tight spaces—lighter lithium-ion models are often used, keeping equipment off the floor and out of the way EatonEaton.

• Tower: Cost-effective and flexible—can be used vertically on floor or shelf deployments Eaton.

Recommendation: Select form factors that align with your physical environment and heat management strategy.

2. Right‑size for Runtime & Capacity

• Estimate load (total wattage) and oversize by ~20% for future-proofing

• Runtime needs: typically 7–10 minutes is sufficient for graceful shutdowns; halving load approximately triples runtime Eaton+1Eaton+1.

Indigi tip: Perform load audits on rack gear and build in headroom for expansion or increased equipment density.

3. Understand Wattage vs VA Ratings

• VA = apparent power; Watts = real output. A 1000 VA UPS may deliver only 600 W unless it’s rated for higher efficiency Eaton+2Eaton+2Eaton+2.

• Always check watt rating, not just VA.

Pro insight: Choose a UPS where the watt rating comfortably exceeds peak load to prevent performance issues.

4. Match Voltage & Plug Type

• Ensure plug type and voltage match site power: e.g., in Australia typically single-phase 230 V, but check for 20 A circuits if higher capacity is needed 

• Larger systems may require dedicated circuits (20 A/30 A).

Indigi takeaway: Audit power availability in the closet before specifying UPS models to avoid surprises.

5. Outlet Configuration

• Confirm the number and types of outlets match your gear.

• Option: use PDUs when UPS outlets are insufficient – Eaton’s FlexPDU is ideal for compact setups Eaton+2Eaton+2Eaton+2.

Value add: Indigi can pre-wire integrated rack solutions with included PDUs for seamless plug-and-go functionality.

6. Noise Considerations

• UPS units generate audible noise—this may cause issues in shared spaces EatonEaton.

• For quieter environments, choose low-dBA models or position the UPS in designated utility rooms.

As a service provider: consider noise as part of deployment, especially in customer-facing or collaborative areas.

7. Installation & Thermal Management

• Factor in proper ventilation—UPSes need airflow to avoid overheating Eaton+1Eaton+1.

• Heavier models should be secured with appropriate shelving or rack hardware.

Indigi strategy: Ensure cabinets allow 50–100 mm of clearance for airflow; use temperature monitoring where necessary.

8. Consider Monitoring, Alerts & Automation

• Network cards (SNMP, HTTPS, email alerts) offer remote monitoring for single UPS units Eaton.

• For larger or multi-site deployments: Eaton’s Intelligent Power Manager supports virtualised server shutdowns, PDU automation & predictive alerts Eaton+2Eaton+2Eaton+2.

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Indigi integration: Implement centralised monitoring with your BMS or server room management tool.

9. Check for Maintenance Bypass & Redundancy

• Maintenance bypass switches enable servicing without power interruption 

• Redundancy (e.g., N+1 or dual UPS paths) ensures resilience in mission-critical setups.

Indigi approach: Design modular systems that allow swapping units and batteries with zero downtime.

10. Warranty & Battery Type

• Lithium‑ion batteries are lighter (≈40 % less) and last 8–10 years. They may also include longer warranties than lead‑acid Eaton.

• Hot-swappable and user-replaceable batteries ease maintenance Eaton.

• Look for full-unit coverage and, ideally, advance‑replacement plans.

Indigi recommendation: Specify lithium‑ion options where battery weight and lifecycle cost matter; offer extended warranties for peace of mind.

Why This Matters for Indigi Power & Cooling

• Reliability: Properly sized and monitored UPS systems reduce downtime risk in critical network spaces.

• Maintainability: With remote alerts and hot‑swap features, equipment stays online longer with less on-site intervention.

• Space & Thermal Efficiency: Modular/lighter units, correct placement, and ventilation reduce environmental strain.

• Customer Confidence: Offering integrated, full-lifecycle supported power solutions builds trust in your service.

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✅ Final Checklist

Step	Task
1	Pick form factor (rack/tower/wall) suited to closet space
2	Calculate total wattage, add 20% buffer
3	Ensure watt rating meets demand
4	Confirm site voltage & plug compatibility
5	Verify outlet types; use PDUs if needed
6	Check noise levels for environment
7	Plan installation and cooling clearances
8	Integrate monitoring & alert systems
9	Specify redundancy and bypass features
10	Opt for lithium batteries with strong warranty

By following Eaton’s expert advice—and applying Indigi’s standards—you’ll deliver resilient, maintainable and scalable UPS deployments tailored for network closet applications. Want help selecting models or integrating intelligent power management? Indigi Power & Cooling is here to design and support your infrastructure from end to end.