Synology NAS Error Code 38: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes (plus 12-24 hours recharge time if battery only needs recharging) Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
38
Brand
Synology
Product Type
nas
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes (plus 12-24 hours recharge time if battery only needs recharging)
Synology DSM Error Code 38 is triggered when the connected UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) reports a low battery level, meaning your NAS may not have enough backup power to survive an outage. This is a medium-severity warning because if the battery is depleted during a power failure, your NAS could shut down abruptly, risking data corruption or loss. Acting quickly to replace the UPS battery or reconfigure your power settings will protect your data and keep your NAS running safely.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 38

  1. Verify the UPS Connection and Status in DSM

  2. Check the UPS Device Directly

    Do not unplug the UPS from the wall outlet while your NAS is running. Removing power abruptly can cause data corruption. Always safely shut down the NAS first if you need to move or service the UPS unit.

  3. Check How Long the UPS Battery Has Been in Service

  4. Allow the UPS to Fully Recharge

  5. Replace the UPS Battery If Needed

    Always use a UPS replacement battery that matches the exact voltage (V) and amp-hour (Ah) specifications of the original. Using an incorrect battery can damage your UPS or void its warranty. Wear safety gloves when handling lead-acid UPS batteries, as they can leak corrosive material. Dispose of old batteries at a certified recycling center — never throw them in regular trash.

  6. Reconfigure UPS Settings in DSM

  7. Test the UPS and Confirm Error Code 38 Is Cleared

    Do not leave the UPS unplugged for extended periods during the test. The goal is only to verify that DSM detects the UPS switchover correctly, not to drain the battery again.

Parts You May Need

UPS replacement battery
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UPS replacement battery
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UPS replacement battery
Check Price on Amazon
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When to Call a Professional

Contact a certified electrician or UPS service technician if your UPS unit itself is malfunctioning beyond a battery issue — for example, if it emits burning smells, shows signs of internal damage, makes unusual electrical sounds, or repeatedly fails to hold a charge even after a new battery is installed. If your NAS experienced a hard shutdown due to this error and your data volumes are no longer accessible or showing errors, contact Synology support or a professional data recovery service immediately rather than attempting further DIY fixes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Synology Error Code 38 mean?
Synology DSM Error Code 38 means the UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) connected to your NAS is reporting a low battery level. This warning tells you that in the event of a power outage, the UPS may not have enough charge to keep your NAS running long enough for a safe shutdown, which puts your data at risk.
Will Synology Error Code 38 cause data loss?
Not immediately, but it creates a serious risk. If a power outage occurs while the UPS battery is critically low, your NAS could lose power suddenly before completing a safe shutdown, which can corrupt files or damage your RAID volume. Addressing Error Code 38 promptly reduces this risk significantly.
How often should I replace my UPS battery for my Synology NAS?
UPS batteries generally last 3 to 5 years under normal conditions. Factors like high ambient temperatures, frequent power outages, and running near full load capacity can shorten battery life. It is good practice to proactively replace your UPS battery every 3 years even if no error has appeared yet.
Can I use any replacement battery in my UPS for my Synology NAS?
No. You must use a replacement battery that exactly matches the voltage (V) and amp-hour (Ah) specifications of your UPS model's original battery. Check the label on your existing battery or your UPS manufacturer's documentation for the correct specifications before purchasing a replacement.
How do I configure Synology DSM to shut down safely when the UPS battery is low?
In DSM, go to Control Panel > Hardware & Power > UPS. Enable UPS support and set the 'Time before NAS enters safe mode' option to a duration (typically 5 to 10 minutes) that ensures your NAS has enough time to complete a clean shutdown if battery power is running low. You can also enable network UPS server settings if multiple devices share the same UPS.

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