What is a black building test?
A black building test is a way to make sure you know you can rely on your Uninterruptible Power Supply when you need it. It’s designed to help keep all your devices and tools online in the event of a power outage or mains failure.
In the black building test, a UPS engineer will create a simulated power outage and then monitor how your UPS equipment – and associated backup generators – react. In fact, that’s how the test got its name – the testing process copies the results of a blackout, creating a black (out) building.
Our team of engineers will carry out the test safely and efficiently. This way, we can maximise the efficiency of your power backup system to make sure you will always be able to stay online when you need to.
We offer diesel generators and UPS systems precisely because we understand how important it is for all businesses to maintain power. Which is why we understand that while UPS maintenance and checking UPS battery health is crucial, keeping business online is just as important. So, we can carry out your UPS black building test out of peak time and during offline hours to minimise any disruption.
What happens during a black building test?
After you book a black building test with Vital Power, our team will be in touch to arrange the logistics. A black building test essentially mimics the effects of a power blackout. This might have been caused by a mains failure, power surge, lightning or other weather event.
So, the black building test begins when the power is mimicked to be shut off to your UPS. Our testing team will then monitor the backup generators and the UPS to check levels and output. Throughout the test, your systems and devices are kept away from any risk – the black building check is entirely simulated and our engineers are on hand to ensure everything goes smoothly.
What are black building tests for?
Carrying out a black building test is a vital part of general maintenance and safety checks for your Uninterruptible Power Supply system. It’s required to make sure the equipment is properly performing.
Our UPS engineers will provide a report detailing the overall health of your UPS. They’ll look out for interruptions and delays in power output that could be damaging if there was a power cut. As long as these faults and any issues are spotted in the process of the test, a Vital Power engineer will be able to fix them and make sure the UPS is up to speed.
How often should I do a black building test?
We recommend carrying out a black building test on your Uninterruptible Power Supply at least once a year, as part of your annual service. If you’re concerned about the performance of your system or have recently carried out any repairs, it might be a good idea to do the test more frequently.
