Power cuts are taking a toll on South Africans \u2013 at home and in the office.<\/p>\n
And while there seems to be no end to the power cuts in sight, there is a light at the end of the tunnel in the form of great load-shedding solutions to keep you going when the lights go out.<\/p>\n
Not sure where to start? Take a look at this handy guide to answer your most burning load-shedding questions:<\/p>\n
It all depends on your priorities. If you simply need to keep connectivity up and running, a UPS <\/strong>is a great and affordable option.<\/p>\n Also known as power banks, UPS\u2019 can keep smaller devices such as mobile phones and routers going for a few hours.<\/p>\n Try out the Vizia 300W Home Office Backup Power Solution<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> for R6999 to power basic 12V devices for use of mobile, routers, and some screens or the Volkano Constant Series Mini UPS for R799 (Ideal to power your network router).<\/p>\n If you\u2019d like a solution that can power your laptop and a few other essential appliances, then an inverter is your best bet. Inverters <\/strong>are large batteries that store power.<\/p>\n They do however need to recharge when the power is back on, so Lead Acid or Gel inverters are best for Load Shedding Stages 2 and lower and Lithium Inverters, for Stages 3 and above.<\/p>\n Check out something like the RCT Megapower 1KVA Inverter Trolley<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> for R9499.00<\/p>\n If you\u2019d prefer to avoid relying on the national power grid altogether, you\u2019ll want to go for a generator<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Driven by diesel or petrol, generators are great for keeping a large number of appliances and lights on during power outages taking into consideration the fuel required to operate.<\/p>\n Consider the Talon petrol generator 2.8kVA<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> for R6999.<\/p>\n For more products in each category, visit Incredible online <\/strong><\/a><\/strong>or in-store for expert advice on your power requirements.<\/p>\n While lead acid batteries were once the norm, lithium-ion batteries are fast overtaking them in popularity due to their longer lifespan and improved performance under pressure.<\/p>\n For instance, if a lead acid battery is drained below 50% charge, its output becomes severely compromised.<\/p>\n Lead acid batteries are also only rated for 150 to 200 use cycles (charges and discharges), and need to be fully recharged before the next use cycle.<\/p>\n This can take up to 12 hours, which is fine for load-shedding Stages 1 and 2 but becomes a problem when we are on Stages 3 and 4 or higher.<\/p>\n On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries can run completely flat without causing damage to the battery.<\/p>\n They can also be charged and discharged up to 2 000 times, making them ideal for ongoing power outages<\/p>\n Incredible now also offers Gel replacement batteries from R3499 and an amazing service at any of their stores to replace your old inverter battery as a complimentary service valued at R199.<\/p>\n Through their recycling initiatives, they also responsibly recycle your old battery at no cost. You can look forward to range expansions for Gate motor- and alarm Lithium batteries.<\/p>\n Get your Mecer 100AH 12V deep Cycle battery<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> from R3499.<\/p>\n When the electricity is restored after a power cut, your devices are exposed to a rush of electricity much higher than the typical power supply.<\/p>\n This can cause some serious damage. Fortunately, there are solutions to protect your devices and appliances against this.<\/p>\n Surge protectors can plug directly into your wall socket and safely protect your devices or appliances. This is a simple DIY and cost-effective method to protect your appliances.<\/p>\n Try the Eurolux Wonder Plug 6 Way with Surge & Overload Protection<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> for R299<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for a more holistic solution, a professional electrician can also insert a surge protector directly into your DB board.<\/p>\n Portable lights like the Magneto Rechargeable LED lights<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> (R129) can brighten up any space and are set to automatically switch on during power cuts making it a semi-smart solution for your home or business.<\/p>\n Alternatively, you could switch your existing lightbulbs to rechargeable bulbs that can last for up to two hours. Try the Eurolux Rechargeable GU10 LED<\/strong><\/a><\/strong> for only R89.<\/p>\n With incredible deals, a huge range of load-shedding solutions, and insightful advice, Incredible can provide the light at the end of the tunnel for your home and business.<\/p>\nLithium-ion batteries vs lead acid batteries. Which is best?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Looking to replace your battery?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How important is surge protection?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Any other handy powercut tips to consider?<\/strong><\/h3>\n