Data centers support everything from cloud services to e-commerce platforms. Maintaining uptime and ensuring optimal performance are paramount, and one of the biggest threats to both is poor power quality. Power anomalies can lead to equipment failures, reduced efficiency, and even downtime, which can have costly consequences for businesses and customers alike.

Let’s review the top five power anomalies that data centers should be monitoring closely to avoid potential issues and maximize performance.

1. Voltage Sags and Dips

What They Are: Voltage sags (or dips) occur when the voltage supplied to equipment drops below its standard level, typically for a few milliseconds to several seconds. These events can happen due to sudden increases in load, short circuits, or even issues with the utility grid.

Why They Matter: For data centers, voltage sags are especially problematic because they can cause servers and critical equipment to shut down unexpectedly, leading to data loss and downtime. Even short dips can be enough to disrupt the operation of sensitive electronics.

What to Monitor:

• The frequency and duration of voltage sags.

• Voltage levels across critical equipment.

• The cause of dips (whether it's an internal issue or external utility problem).

How to Prevent It:

• Implement Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) systems that can maintain power during dips.

• Install voltage regulators or stabilizers to ensure consistent power supply to sensitive equipment.

2. Voltage Swells

What They Are: A voltage swell is the opposite of a voltage sag. It occurs when the voltage exceeds the nominal level for a short period, often caused by the sudden removal of a large load or an imbalance in the system.

Why They Matter: When voltage swells occur, it can overstress equipment and potentially cause insulation breakdowns, overheating, or permanent damage to servers, routers, and other mission-critical infrastructure.

What to Monitor:

• Voltage levels over a period of time to detect abnormal rises.

• Frequency and duration of swells.

• Components that are most susceptible to damage from high voltage.

How to Prevent It:

• Use surge protectors to absorb the excess voltage.

• Consider voltage regulation equipment that automatically adjusts the power delivered to sensitive components.

3. Harmonics

What They Are: Harmonics are distortions in the power waveforms caused by non-linear loads such as variable speed drives, computers, and other electronic equipment. These harmonics can cause the voltage waveform to become “choppy,” disrupting the smooth flow of electrical energy.

Why They Matter: In data centers, harmonics can lead to overheating of transformers and motors, reduce the lifespan of equipment, and cause malfunctioning or inefficiencies in sensitive circuits. Harmonic distortion can also lead to poor power factor, which wastes energy and increases operational costs.

What to Monitor:

• Total harmonic distortion (THD) in both voltage and current.

• Harmonic levels that exceed industry standards (typically less than 5% THD).

• The equipment most affected by harmonics, such as UPS systems and cooling units.

How to Prevent It:

• Install harmonic filters to reduce distortion.

• Consider power conditioning equipment to ensure clean, stable energy reaches your critical systems.

4. Power Factor Imbalance

What It Is: Power factor refers to the ratio of real power (the energy used to perform work) to apparent power (the total energy supplied). A low power factor indicates that the power being supplied isn’t being used efficiently, often due to an imbalance in the load.

Why It Matters: Power factor imbalances can result in increased energy consumption and higher electricity costs. In data centers, this inefficiency can cause added strain on electrical systems and lead to equipment malfunctions.

What to Monitor:

• Power factor readings across the data center.

• Imbalances between phases in three-phase power systems.

• The overall power consumption of critical systems and equipment.

How to Prevent It:

• Use power factor correction devices, such as capacitors or synchronous condensers.

• Ensure that load distribution across phases is balanced to reduce inefficiencies.

5. Grounding Issues and Ground Faults

What They Are: A ground fault occurs when electrical current escapes its intended path and travels through an unintended route, often to the ground. This is typically caused by faulty wiring or damaged insulation.

Why They Matter: Ground faults can be dangerous, leading to equipment damage, system failures, and even fires in extreme cases. They can also compromise the safety of personnel working in or near electrical equipment.

What to Monitor:

• Ground fault currents, especially in sensitive or high-power areas.

• Continuity and integrity of grounding systems.

• Any abnormal readings that suggest a potential fault or risk.

How to Prevent It:

• Regularly test and maintain grounding systems to ensure they are intact.

• Use ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) to quickly disconnect circuits when a fault is detected.

Volta Insite Can Help!

Power anomalies are often hidden threats that can undermine the efficiency and reliability of your data center. Monitoring for these anomalies—such as voltage sags, swells, harmonics, power factor imbalances, and grounding issues—is crucial to prevent costly downtime, equipment failure, and inefficient operations.

Volta Insite's predictive maintenance tools and advanced monitoring solutions help identify these power quality issues before they escalate, allowing for proactive interventions that keep your data center running smoothly. By staying ahead of power-related problems, you can ensure the reliability and performance of your data center infrastructure.

For peace of mind and more information on how to improve power quality in your facility, contact Volta Insite today!