At BCL Power, we understand the critical role Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems play in maintaining business continuity. Whether supporting data centres, healthcare operations, or industrial facilities, a UPS ensures reliable backup power when it matters most.
Yet, while specifying and maintaining a UPS system is essential, the correct disposal of end-of-life batteries is often overlooked. UPS battery recycling isn’t just responsible practice, it’s a legal and environmental obligation.
During the life of a UPS system, one to two battery replacements are typically required, often as part of scheduled preventative maintenance. These proactive changes help ensure system reliability and reduce the risk of unexpected power failures. However, each battery replacement also presents an important opportunity, and responsibility, for organisations to properly manage and recycle the used batteries. Failing to do so can not only compromise environmental safety but may also result in non-compliance with waste disposal regulations. That’s why it’s crucial to have a clear plan for UPS battery recycling as an integral part of your power infrastructure strategy.
Why UPS Maintenance Matters
A UPS system is only as reliable as its weakest component, and more often than not, that’s the battery. Like any energy storage device, UPS batteries degrade over time due to temperature fluctuations, usage patterns, and age. Regular maintenance is essential to:
- Ensure Reliability: Prevent unexpected failures during outages.
- Extend Battery Life: Maximise usable life with proactive care.
- Reduce Costs: Detect and address issues before they become costly replacements.
- Stay Compliant: Many sectors enforce strict regulations on power backup systems.
BCL Power delivers specialist UPS maintenance services, including impedance testing, thermal imaging, full-system inspections and 24/7 technical support. Our services align with SFG20 standards, giving you confidence in both performance and compliance.
The Environmental and Legal Responsibilities
When UPS batteries reach the end of their service life, safe disposal is essential. Lead-acid batteries, which make up the majority of UPS systems, are classified as hazardous waste under UK regulations. If handled incorrectly, they can release lead, sulphuric acid, and other toxic materials into the environment.
That’s why BCL Power provides a compliant UPS battery removal and recycling service, ensuring full traceability and adherence to the Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009.
We provide a safe, unified approach to the removal and disposal of electrically-related waste and transport it to our workshops for strip-down into separate waste streams or to approved recycling centres or specialist disposal companies.
Once removed from site, the batteries are sent to specialist battery companies who can strip down the batteries into their separate components of plastic cases, metal plates and acidic electrolyte, for recycling.
BCL engineers will ensure that all safety and legal requirements associated with the dismantling, removal, transportation and disposal of waste batteries are fully complied with, including the requirements of the Hazardous Waste Regulations.
What Our Battery Recycling Package Includes:
- Licensed Collection and Transport – All removals are handled by certified professionals.
Safe, Compliant Disposal – Batteries recycled through approved UK facilities. - Sustainability Reporting – Documentation provided for audit trails and CSR reporting.
Why Recycling Matters:
- 95% of a lead-acid battery can be recycled, including the lead, plastic casing, and acid.
- Reduces CO2 emissions by cutting demand for raw materials.
- Avoids regulatory penalties linked to improper waste management.
Trusted Support Across the UPS Lifecycle
UPS systems are vital, but they demand proper care and responsible retirement. From installation and maintenance to environmental stewardship, BCL Power delivers end-to-end UPS lifecycle services. With safe battery recycling, cost-effective operations, and round-the-clock technical support, you can rely on us to secure your power continuity and sustainability commitments.
Need help with UPS maintenance or battery recycling?
Contact BCL Power today. We provide reliable, compliant, and environmentally responsible UPS services to keep your business running safely and sustainably.