Can you use a computer UPS as a backup power source for powerheads?

[newreefer03]

Someone offered to sell me a 1400VA UPS. I was wondering if this was good to use as a backup power source for the reef tank, probably just powerheads and How long 1400VA would last for a 8-10watt powerhead?

 

[dz6t]

Yes, you can and for 1400VA, it will last a long time. I think it should be more than 24 hours and may be even longer.

 

[dedfish]

I read a thread on RC sayng that you couldn't. It has to do with the wave form? that the UPS generates. I will try and dig up the thread. I don't know how much a small powerhead would be effected versus a larger pump.

 

[dedfish]

On page 27 of this thread near the bottom, look for a post by Kc189.
RC Thread

 

[Mike75]

So you can, but it has to be a Smart-UPS model or similar that outputs a true sine-wave. The entry level Back-UPS are not really useable.