Can I change the input plug or reduce the cord length on my Rack Power Distribution Unit (Rack PDU) or Rack Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)?

Search FAQs

Issue

What is the policy on changing a Rack PDU/ATS input power plug? Can I reduce the cord length? Can I hardwire the input?

Product Line

Rack Power Distribution Unit (PDU) Models
- AP95XX
- AP75XX
- AP78XX
- AP79XX
- AP84XX
- AP86XX
- AP88XX
- AP89XX

Easy Power Distribution Unit (EPDU) Models
- EPDUXXXXX

Rack Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) Models
- AP77XX
- AP44XX
- AP44XXA

Environment

Installation scenarios requiring input plug modifications or cord length reductions

Cause

APC policy is provided for reference or documentation reasons.

Resolution

APC will continue to honor the product warranty on a Rack PDU or Rack ATS if a licensed electrician is used to change the input plug or provided the replacement plug has the equivalent ratings of the original APC supplied plug. This also applies to users who wish to reduce the cord length. APC will invalidate any warranty claim if a failure is determined to be caused by replacement plug quality, cord modification, and/or installation error. If a warranty replacement is ordered, it is important to understand that the replacement unit will be provided with the original APC specified plug and/or cord length.

It is the customer's responsibility to ensure the modifications adhere to code standards. In terms of agency approval, it is the responsibility of the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) to determine the acceptability of the modification or if the modifications are significant enough to require one of UL's Field Engineering Services staff members to evaluate the modified product.

For more information on UL markings, please see the attached document.

Note: Opening the actual chassis of the PDU or ATS is strictly prohibited, poses a safety risk, and will immediately void the warranty. APC Rack ATS and Rack PDU products have not been evaluated by safety agencies for hardwiring in the field and as such, customer modification of these products for hard wiring cannot be supported. Hardwiring these products would require removing the cover to gain access to the internal power connections. As mentioned, opening the chassis will immediately void the warranty. Additionally, removing the cover and modifying the input power wiring can create dangerous shock hazards that may result in death or serious injury.