When load shedding hits, everyone in South Africa starts to feel the pressure. With hours on end of no power, it has become essential for homeowners to start considering investing in a reliable uninterruptable power supply (UPS). But where do you start? Choosing a quality UPS can be difficult and time-consuming if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Fortunately, we have crafted this helpful guide that will walk you through all the ins and outs of selecting an effective UPS to ensure your electronics are never left without a power source. Let’s get into it!
Contents
- The impact of load shedding on your electronics and appliances
- UPS power supply vs an Inverter
- How to select the correct size UPS
- Factors such as noise, temperature, and ventilation when making a UPS decision
- Compare prices and features of different models to find the best fit for your needs
The impact of load shedding on your electronics and appliances
Nothing is more annoying than being in the middle of an important task only to have the power go out due to load shedding. The sudden loss of electricity not only disrupts our daily routine but can also have a significant impact on the health and lifespan of our valuable electronics and appliances.
During load shedding, sudden power surges and outages can damage the delicate circuitry of our devices, leading to a decrease in performance or even complete failure. Not to mention, frequent power interruptions can also disrupt the calibration of our electric appliances, blow circuit boards, and in some cases, render them completely useless and unrepairable.
Unfortunately, load shedding is a harsh reality many of us have to deal with, and it’s essential to take necessary precautions to safeguard our electronics and appliances, ensuring they last longer and perform at their best despite the ongoing power cuts.
UPS power supply vs an Inverter
When it comes to power supply backup, both a UPS and an Inverter can come in handy. But what are the main differences? A UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) is a device that provides power backup to a computer or other electronic devices in case of power failure. It typically has a capacity of up to a few hundred watts and can have a built-in battery with a few amp hours (ah) of capacity.
On the other hand, an inverter can then be used to power anything from a light bulb to an entire house. Inverters typically have a higher capacity than UPS devices and can be installed in a variety of different settings. So while both devices can provide power backup, the capacity and versatility of an inverter make it a better choice for larger or more general household power requirements like TVs, lights, security systems and fridges.
How to select the correct size UPS
When it comes to protecting your electronic devices from power outages, a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) can be a lifesaver. But how do you know what size UPS you need for your home?
Selecting the correct size for a UPS involves several steps. Here’s a basic guideline for you:
- Identify Your Equipment: Make a list of all the equipment that you intend to power with the UPS. This typically includes computers, monitors, networking equipment, and any other essential electronics.
- Find the Power Requirements: Look at the technical specifications for each piece of equipment to find their power requirements. This is typically listed in watts or volts and amps. If the power is listed in volts and amps, you can calculate the wattage by multiplying volts by amps. Remember, though, that some devices may require more power at startup or during peak usage.
- Calculate Total Power Requirements: Add up the wattage of all the devices. This gives you an idea of the minimum power output your UPS will need to deliver.
- Consider Runtime: Think about how long you would like your systems to run in the event of a power outage. If you only need enough time to save work and properly shut down your systems, a smaller UPS might suffice. If you need your systems to run uninterrupted until power is restored, you will need a larger UPS.
- Factor in Future Expansion: If you plan to add more devices to your network in the future, consider getting a larger UPS to accommodate the additional power requirements.
- Choose a UPS with a Higher Output: It is always safer to choose a UPS that can output more power than you currently need. A UPS running at maximum capacity will have a shorter lifespan and will not provide adequate runtime in a power outage. As a rule of thumb, try to select a UPS that will operate at about 60-75% of its full capacity under your normal load.
- Check Other UPS Features: Besides power capacity and runtime, you may also want to consider other UPS features, such as the number of outlets, the type of power protection (e.g., surge protection, line-interactive, online), and any software or connectivity options.
Keep in mind that it’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose a UPS with a higher wattage capacity, especially if you plan to add more devices in the future.
With the right UPS for your home, you can safeguard your valuable electronics and have peace of mind knowing you’re protected from power fluctuations.
Factors such as noise, temperature, and ventilation when making a UPS decision
When it comes to choosing the right uninterruptible power supply (UPS), there are a variety of factors to consider, such as noise, temperature, and ventilation. These factors can greatly impact the performance and lifespan of your UPS, so it’s important to take them into account before making a final decision.
For instance, some UPSs make beeping noises when the gird power is cut. This is not ideal for your home office! The cooling fans also kick ona dn can be very noisy. I have modified several UPSs by disconnecting the beeping module and also added silent fans from companies like ‘Be Silent’, but this is only recommended if you know what you are doing!
Compare prices and features of different models to find the best fit for your needs
In today’s world, we have a variety of options when it comes to buying something new, including different models of a particular product. However, with so many choices, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one to purchase. That’s where comparing prices and features comes in handy. By doing a little research and weighing the pros and cons of each model, you can find one that fits your needs and budget. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it can also help you avoid impulse decisions. So, take the time to do your homework and find the perfect fit for your needs!
As far as UPS brands go – I recommend Eaton. I’ve used them for years, and the outlast everything else I’ve used. Just remember not to run them to total discharge. They are not designed for this, and it will significantly shorten their lifespan.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, with the current daily load shedding in South Africa. Taking a few steps to find the right Uninterruptible Power Supply is essential to protect your sensitive electronics and keep your laptop and wifi router running. For lights and larger appliances – go the inverter route.
Consider what you need, research your options and compare features, think about capacity and compare prices before making any purchases. Doing your homework will help you make informed decisions that’ll save you ultimately hundreds of rands by by choosing the right solution the first time around! With the right knowledge, buying the perfect UPS is now easier than ever.
