Power Spikes From HVAC System

[riverofwind]

Hi I have an interesting situation... I live in a condo and unfortunately for me the two HVAC systems/fans are on the same circuit as my main desktop computer system. Recently every time either of the HVAC systems turn off I get a little audio blip out of my speakers and sometimes my monitor will flash on and off. My desktop computer system is hooked up to an APC BE850G2 battery backup. For some reason those spikes are getting through to my components. IIRC also sometimes when the HVAC systems turn on I get sags that have a similar effect although this hasn't happened super recently.

Is this something to worry about? Can it cause damage / wear and tear to my components? If so how can I protect my components from said spikes? I called APC and they said I would need to get a $1300 enterprise battery backup which is a fair amount of money to invest.

Thanks!

 

[PS Electrics]

Hi I have an interesting situation... I live in a condo and unfortunately for me the two HVAC systems/fans are on the same circuit as my main desktop computer system. Recently every time either of the HVAC systems turn off I get a little audio blip out of my speakers and sometimes my monitor will flash on and off. My desktop computer system is hooked up to an APC BE850G2 battery backup. For some reason those spikes are getting through to my components. IIRC also sometimes when the HVAC systems turn on I get sags that have a similar effect although this hasn't happened super recently.

Is this something to worry about? Can it cause damage / wear and tear to my components? If so how can I protect my components from said spikes? I called APC and they said I would need to get a $1300 enterprise battery backup which is a fair amount of money to invest.

Thanks!

That model is an entry level back up (offline) UPS and lacks the features you need. You could look at what are known as line-interactive UPS models. Prices vary quite a bit dependant on features and specs but you should be able to get one of those for considerable less than $1300. Look at the APC backup Pro range.

A big consideration for price is the battery type if you are ok with a heavy UPS and want the cost saving then lead acid battery models are cheaper.

With regards to worrying about it yes it will cause damage/wear over time to your components, Electronics are sensitive to these type of events. It is certainly something you would want to reduce/eliminate if possible.