What are the differences between diesel generators and UPS systems?

But what are the differences between these two power backup solutions? Is one better than the other, and which is right for your business?

Benefits of Diesel Generators

High Power Output

Diesel generators are known for their significant power output capabilities, which is why so many businesses rely on them. This capability means that they can provide a consistent and reliable source of power for extended periods. For this reason, diesel-powered generators are ideal for industries where a continuous power supply is critical, such as manufacturing plants or data centres.

Long Runtime

Depending on the size of the machinery, diesel generators often have large fuel tanks, which allows them to run for long periods without the need for frequent refuelling. For areas where outages and power cuts can be long, or for teams who don’t want to have to check on fuel levels regularly, this can be a huge advantage.

Cost Efficiency

Diesel generators are generally economical to maintain and run, and diesel fuel is easily available for refuelling. Particularly for businesses suffering from prolonged power cuts, frequent outages or an unreliable mains supply, diesel generators can be particularly cost effective thanks to low maintenance requirements and efficient running.

Benefits of UPS Systems

Instant Power Supply

One of the main reasons so many businesses turn to UPS systems for backup power is their ability to provide instant power when the main supply fails. A UPS works by instantly switching to battery power when an interruption is detected in the voltage from the mains. This ensures uninterrupted power to critical equipment, preventing data loss and minimising downtime for your business. UPS systems are particularly beneficial for industries that require seamless power transitions and can’t afford any outages, such as healthcare facilities and financial institutions.

Stable Power Supply

UPS systems regulate and stabilise incoming voltage power, protecting sensitive electronic equipment from fluctuations, surges, and dips in the electricity supply. This makes them ideal for businesses where maintaining the integrity of sensitive electronic devices is crucial, including IT companies and scientific laboratories.

Quiet Power Generation

UPS systems are usually compact and operate silently, making them suitable for businesses with limited space or noise-sensitive environments. If your system will need to be kept near offices or other buildings, this can be crucial to minimise distractions and interruptions. UPS systems can be easily integrated into existing infrastructure without the need for extensive modifications or builds.

Which businesses are best suited to UPS systems?

Uninterruptible Power Supply systems are particularly well-suited for businesses that have a heavy reliance on data integrity, those that require minimal downtime as a necessity, and those that require rapid power transition capabilities.

These can include:

• IT companies
• Hospitals and healthcare facilities
• Banks and financial institutions
• Laboratories and research centres

Which businesses are best suited to diesel generators?

Because they have a high power output and the ability to run for a long time, many businesses choose to install a diesel generator as a reliable backup power system. Businesses with a significant power requirement are well suited to diesel generator systems.

These can include:

• Factories and manufacturing plants
• Building and construction sites
• Farms and agriculture businesses
• Data centres
• Emergency services
• Office buildings
• Shopping centres

Benefits of having both UPS systems and diesel generators

For lots of businesses, having a combination of diesel generators and UPS systems can provide the most robust power protection strategy.

Having both systems means if one fails or requires maintenance, the other can seamlessly take over, preventing any disruption in power supply. Combining diesel generators and UPS systems can provide comprehensive power coverage, addressing both short-term power fluctuations and long-term outages.

Additionally for some businesses, using a UPS system in conjunction with a smaller diesel generator may prove to be the most cost-effective solution, balancing initial investment and operational costs.

To discuss your options and to learn more about how we can help protect your business, contact Vital Power today.