Your UPS Clicks Continuously? Identify the Causes and How to Fix It Yourself

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Simple Diagnostic Flowchart

Here’s a simple flowchart to help you identify the cause of the clicking sound on the UPS:

Does a clicking sound occur when the power goes out?  
   ├── Yes: This is most likely due to a change in operating mode or relay switching.  
   └── No:  
       ├── Does the UPS indicate an overload?  
       │   ├── Yes: Reduce the load on the UPS.  
       │   └── No:  
       │       ├── Has the UPS battery not been replaced for a long time?  
       │       │   ├── Yes: Replace the UPS battery.  
       │       │   └── No: Inspect the internal components or take it to a qualified technician.  
       └── Check the cables and internal connections of the UPS.

How to Fix Clicking Sound on UPS (Troubleshooting Steps)

A clicking sound on the UPS can be an indication of a problem that needs to be addressed immediately. Here are troubleshooting steps you can take to find and address the cause of the sound.

Step 1: Find the Source of the Click Sound

  1. Try to figure out where the click is coming from. Is it from the back, side, or inside the UPS?
  2. Note whether or not the clicking sound appears regularly. For example, does this sound appear whenever the power goes out or when the UPS is charging?
  3. Note when the click appears. Is it when the power is off, when charging, or when the UPS is functioning normally?

Step 2: Check the Load on the UPS

  1. Ensure that the total power from the connected device does not exceed the UPS’s capacity. This information is on the UPS specification label.
  2. If the load is too heavy, reduce the number of connected devices.
  3. To find out how much power each device uses, you can use a power meter. This helps ensure the load does not exceed the capacity of the UPS.

Step 3: Perform UPS Calibration

Some types of UPS have calibration features that can reduce how often mode switching occurs.

If your UPS has this feature, perform the calibration according to the instructions in the user manual. This can help reduce the “clicking” sound that occurs due to too frequent mode switching.

Step 4: Check the Battery Condition

  1. UPS batteries typically last 3-5 years. If it has passed its useful life, immediately replace it with a new one.
  2. See if there is any physical damage to the battery, such as leakage or swelling.
  3. Use a measuring device to check the battery voltage. If the voltage is below the specification, the battery may need to be replaced.

Step 5: Check the Cable and Terminal Connections

  1. Make sure all cables are properly installed and secure. Check for any loose or damaged cables.
  2. If there is any corrosion in the battery terminals, clean them with a small brush and a safe cleaning solution.

Step 6: Clean the UPS

  1. Make sure the UPS is off and unplugged from the power source before cleaning.
  2. Use a vacuum cleaner or soft brush to remove dust and debris inside the UPS. Make sure that no foreign objects enter the UPS.

Step 7: Contact an Expert Technician

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, it is best to contact an expert technician who is experienced in UPS repair. Explain to the technician any symptoms, including any clicks you hear. The technician will be able to perform further checks and fix any issues that may not be visible to you.

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