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What Size UPS Do You Need for a CCTV System?

Installing a CCTV system is a vital part of any business’s security strategy, but it’s only as reliable as its power source. Without consistent electricity, even the most advanced cameras can’t protect your premises. That’s why choosing the right size UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is so important.

For most small to medium-sized CCTV installations, a 1500VA UPS is the go-to choice. It typically delivers 18–24 minutes of runtime for a 4-camera system and around 8–18 minutes for an 8-camera setup. Larger installations, such as 16 cameras or more, often benefit from a dedicated 1500VA unit for the DVR/NVR, with additional UPS units powering the cameras themselves.

Why a UPS Is Essential for CCTV Systems

A UPS for CCTV ensures your surveillance keeps running when mains power fails or voltage fluctuates. Without one, a sudden outage could mean losing crucial footage or leaving your premises unprotected.

Key benefits include:

Preventing downtime during power cuts.
Protecting equipment from surges and spikes.
Delivering clean, stable power to sensitive CCTV electronics.

How to Determine the Right UPS Size for Your CCTV

Step 1 – Calculate your total wattage

Add up the requirements for all connected devices, cameras, your Network Video Recorder (NVR) or Digital Video Recorder (DVR), and any networking equipment.

Step 2 – Factor in future growth

Choose a UPS with a higher output watt capacity than your current load so you can expand without replacing it.

Step 3 – Decide on your required runtime

Most businesses need 15–20 minutes of backup to keep recording during short outages or allow for a safe shutdown. For example, a 1500VA UPS will usually power a 4-camera system for up to 24 minutes, while the same unit might power an 8-camera system for around 8–18 minutes. If you need significantly longer runtimes, you may want to dedicate one UPS to the recorder and use smaller UPS units for camera groups.

Recommended UPS Models

Riello Sentinel Dual UPS – Flexible rack/tower format.
Riello Sentryum Active Dual Phase – High efficiency, scalable options.
APC Smart-UPS On-Line Rackmount – Double-conversion reliability.

Protect Your CCTV System Today

At Adept Power Solutions, we supply and install UPS systems tailored to your security setup. From small shops to large commercial sites, we’ll help you choose the right size and configuration for complete peace of mind.

Call us or contact our team to secure uninterrupted surveillance.