What Caused Load Shedding & Using UPS Power as a Fix

Load shedding has become a frequent, unwelcome guest in the lives of South Africans, disrupting daily routines and business operations. While the Rugby World Cup gave us a bit of a reprieve, as soon as the confetti had fallen on the celebratory field, so to speak, the darkness returned.

But why is load shedding such a big problem in our country. Why is it happening, and how can UPS make a difference for your day-today? This blog aims to unpack the causes of load shedding and introduce Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems as a viable solution to mitigate its impact.

What is Load Shedding?

Load shedding is the act of lessening the load on something—in this context, it’s about reducing the electricity supply need by enacting intentional electricity outages. In a South African context, load shedding is Eskom’s National Control Centre instructing municipalities to reduce need for energy from the grid according to prescribed stages. The length of a shed depends on the stage and the municipality/location.

The goal of this practise is to lessen the load, or the electricity supply need and demand, on the national grid.

What Are the Stages of Load Shedding?

There are essentially eight stages of load shedding (although the idea of more has been bandied about). Each one aligns with the number of megawatts (MW) that need to be shed. Stage 1 sheds 1000MW, stage 2 sheds 2000MW, stage 3 sheds 3000MW—and so on. The higher the stage, the more frequent and longer the power outages are.

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Why is Load Shedding Happening?

There are a wide range of contributing factors, but at the core of South Africa’s load shedding problem is the state of Eskom, the main power utility. It comes down to the fact that there simply isn’t enough supply of energy nationally to meet the demand. Eskom’s challenges are multi-layered, stemming from ageing infrastructure, maintenance neglect, and unfortunately, deliberate acts of sabotage that compound the utility’s ability to provide a stable energy supply.

For instance, a simple act of unscrewing a small component at a coal-fired power station led to a turbine halting abruptly. This event is a snapshot of the broader issues plaguing the power utility, ranging from internal corruption to extensive damage of energy infrastructure, all contributing to the unstable power conditions that result in load shedding.

Contributors to the Load Shedding Problem

• Unplanned Maintenance on Old Stations

Due to their age and a lack of prior maintenance, some of Eskom’s coal-fired power plants undergo unplanned maintenance regularly.

• New Stations Have Issues

There are two newish power stations that have been built in recent years—Medupi and Kusile—but these have faced challenges in bringing units online.

• Wet Coal

When it rains, wet coal is often the reason provided for load shedding at higher stages.

The Cost of Corruption and Sabotage

The situation is further exacerbated by criminal activities and political dynamics that directly interfere with Eskom’s operations. The country’s energy utility is not just battling operational inefficiencies but is also contending with theft and corruption, which siphon off funds and resources, crippling its capacity to provide continuous electricity. Such activities not only threaten the provision of electricity, but also hinder the country’s progress toward cleaner, renewable energy sources.

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The UPS Solution

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems are like lifeboats for your electrical equipment during power outages. They give you emergency power so that your important devices can keep running even when the electricity supply is cut off. A UPS provides emergency power when the main supply fails, ensuring that connected devices continue to operate for at least a short period. For businesses and critical applications, this means the difference between operational continuity and costly downtime.

Essential Energy Protection with UPS

A UPS system offers essential power protection, safeguarding sensitive electrical equipment from the harshest power conditions caused by load shedding. It’s not just about keeping the lights on when the incoming utility power drops, but also protecting your electronic devices from potential damage due to surges or outages.

The Benefits of Battery Backup Power

Incorporating battery backups within UPS systems extends the resilience of your electricity supply. With advancements in battery life and technology, such as lithium-ion batteries, UPS systems can offer longer backup times, ensuring your operations can continue even during extended periods of load shedding. So, you get voltage stabilization that protects the longevity of your electronic devices, but you also get uninterrupted electricity to enable the continuity of your operations.

Why Choose PHD?

We specialise in providing industry-leading solutions tailored to South Africa’s unique energy challenges. We can help you find UPS systems designed to offer robust protection for your electronic equipment, efficient supply, and flexible operating modes to suit various requirements, from home offices to large industrial applications.

Our offerings include highly efficient 3-phase power protection for large-scale needs and single-phase solutions for smaller setups. With features like scalable runtime options and sophisticated energy storage solutions, we can help ensure that your power supply is safeguarded against even the most unstable power conditions.

How to Get Energy Security

We understand that uninterrupted power is not just a convenience but a necessity for maintaining business critical operations and ensuring business continuity. Don’t let load shedding put a damper on your productivity and peace of mind. With us, load shedding doesn’t have to mean lights out for your business or home.

Explore PHD Powerhouse’s wide range of UPS systems and find the perfect match for your needs. Get in touch with us for a tailored solution that keeps you powered through the darkest of times.

The Essential Checklist: What to Look for in UPS for Sale in Pretoria Ads

In South Africa, uninterrupted power supply (UPS) systems are not just a luxury; they’re a necessity, especially in regions like Pretoria where power outages can be a common occurrence. Whether you’re safeguarding your home office or ensuring your commercial business doesn’t miss a beat, finding the right UPS is crucial. This blog serves as your essential guide to navigating UPS for sale ads in Pretoria, ensuring you make an informed decision for your backup power needs.

1. Understand Your Power Requirements

Before diving into the sea of options available, it’s important to assess your energy needs. Do you need a UPS for your home office to keep your PC and Wi-Fi router running during load shedding? Or are you a commercial business looking for a robust solution to keep critical systems operational? Understanding your power requirements will help you filter out options that are either overkill or insufficient for your needs in the range of devices for sale in Pretoria.

2. Types of UPS Systems

When browsing through UPS ads, you’ll encounter various types, mainly standby, line-interactive, and double conversion systems. Standby UPS is suitable for smaller devices and offers basic protection. Line-interactive UPS, with its voltage stabilization feature, is ideal for areas with frequent voltage fluctuations. For sensitive electrical equipment, a double conversion UPS offers the most comprehensive protection by isolating the input power source from the output.

3. Battery Life and Backup Times

One of the most crucial factors in selecting a UPS is its battery backup times. How long do you need your systems to run during a blackout? Different models offer varying backup times, so look for specifications like ‘6-8 hours’ of backup to align with your requirements. Also, consider models with overcharge protection and cold start functions, which ensure longevity and reliability.

4. Scalability and Flexibility

Business needs evolve, and so do power requirements. Opt for a UPS with scalability options – meaning, it can grow with your increasing power needs. Modular UPS systems are particularly advantageous for commercial businesses as they allow for load growth without the need for a complete system overhaul.

5. Compatibility and Connectivity

In our digitally-driven society, compatibility with your existing setup is non-negotiable. Check if the UPS can seamlessly integrate with your current electrical apparatus and devices. Additionally, features like power over Ethernet (PoE) are beneficial for supporting devices like VoIP phones and wireless networks without needing additional power sources.

6. Additional Features

Today’s UPS systems come with an array of additional features. Look for advanced options like excellent microprocessor control for precise operations, email alerts for monitoring UPS status, and automatic voltage regulation for added stability. These features not only enhance performance but also bring peace of mind.

7. Brand Reputation and Warranty

Investing in a UPS from a reputable brand ensures reliability and quality. Choose brands known for their robust design and dependable performance. Additionally, check for warranty terms and after-sales support—these are indicators of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.

8. Cost vs. Quality

While budget is an important consideration, it should not be the sole deciding factor. A cheaper UPS might save you money upfront but could cost more in the long run due to lower efficiency and higher maintenance costs. Balance your budget with the quality and features offered.

9. Read Customer Reviews and Feedback

Before making a final decision, it’s wise to look at customer reviews and feedback, especially for insights into real-world performance and reliability. It helps in understanding how the UPS performs under different circumstances and its longevity.

10. Energy Efficiency and Environmental Considerations

In today’s world, energy efficiency isn’t just about reducing electricity bills; it’s also about minimizing environmental impact. When looking for a UPS, check its energy efficiency ratings. High-efficiency models consume less power and, consequently, generate less heat, which also means lower cooling costs. Additionally, some UPS systems come with eco-friendly features like automatic power off function, which help in reducing energy wastage. This aspect is not only beneficial for cost-saving but also aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainability.

11. Installation and Maintenance Requirements

Understanding the installation and maintenance requirements of a UPS system is crucial. Some systems might require professional installation, especially those that are intended for commercial use or have complex power management setups. Regular maintenance is vital to ensure your UPS system operates optimally and enjoys a longer lifespan. Look for models that offer easy access for battery replacement and check whether the supplier provides maintenance services. Remember, a UPS with complex maintenance requirements might lead to higher long-term costs and inconvenience.

12. Evaluating After-Sales Support and Service Agreements

The quality of after-sales support is a critical aspect often overlooked. Ensure that the UPS provider offers reliable customer service and technical support. It’s advisable to opt for suppliers who provide comprehensive service agreements, including regular maintenance and prompt support in case of system failures or technical issues. A service agreement can be a lifesaver, especially for businesses where any downtime can lead to significant financial losses. Additionally, assess the responsiveness of their customer support team—a quick response time can make a significant difference in emergency situations.

Choosing the right UPS system in Pretoria requires careful consideration of your specific power needs, the type of UPS, battery life, scalability, and additional features. Always opt for quality and reliability over cost, and don’t forget to check customer reviews for real-world insights.

At PHD, we understand the importance of uninterrupted power in keeping your business activities or home running smoothly and efficiently. Explore our wide range of UPS systems and find the perfect match for your needs. For more information and to get the right UPS for your needs, contact us directly. Don’t let power outages disrupt your flow—secure your backup power solution with PHD today!

How to Maximise the Lifespan of Lithium Ion Batteries

To energy enthusiasts and savvy tech adopters, the switch from conventional lead-acid batteries to lithium-ion batteries can feel like hopping off a rickety ox-wagon and climbing aboard the sleek Gautrain. Lithium-Ion batteries, or “the Gautrains of the battery world”, provide higher energy density, power density, and a nominal voltage that makes them the power choice for devices from cell phones to power tools. They’re lighter in weight, akin to carrying a bag of biltong, rather than a whole springbok. But just like the Gautrain’s timetable, the battery life of lithium ion cells needs careful management to ensure peak performance and longevity.

You can imagine your lithium-ion battery as the hard-working heart of your power system. The number of life cycles – or ‘heartbeats’ – depends on how you use and care for it. Here’s how to keep that heart healthy and ticking for as long as possible.

1. Avoid ‘Extreme Sports’: High discharge voltages and elevated temperatures can increase the risk of thermal runaway – an unfortunate event where the battery cells generate internal pressures akin to a Highveld storm, leading to potential failure. Keep batteries in a cool, stable environment and avoid high-current applications to extend their life cycle durability.
2. Take It Easy on the Depth of Discharge (DOD): Try not to drain your battery to zero every time. A lower DOD (like a gentle stroll along the Cape Wine Route, rather than a Comrades Marathon) leads to more charge cycles, stretching out the battery’s lifespan and cycle times.
3. The Right Charge is Key: Overcharging or undercharging can harm cell voltage, like going to a braai and being fed too many boerewors rolls (or not enough). A good battery management system (BMS) will regulate the charge voltage, ensuring your battery stays in the ‘Goldilocks zone’ – not too high, not too low, but just right. This can help reduce your loss per cycle, so you get thousands of cycles and steady performance from your battery.
4. Quality Matters: When considering Lithium ion battery options, don’t be swayed by the lure of a cheap deal. Batteries from reputable suppliers ensure quality and often come with built-in battery management systems. These batteries may cost a bit more upfront, akin to buying a World Cup rugby ticket, but their superior performance and longevity will save you more in the long run. For expertise in choosing the best, you can talk to one of the PHD power experts today!
5. Storage is Key: If you’re not using your batteries for a while, don’t leave them lying around like forgotten gemsbok biltong. Store them at a 50% charge in a cool and dry environment to maintain their health. For extra protection, ensure they are not grounded while being stored to preserve their energy content.
6. Keep an Eye on Health: Using a BMS can also help you monitor battery health by detecting changes in the battery’s capacity fade, or its ability to hold charge over time. This is like your regular check-up at the GP to make sure everything is running as it should. Often, a BMS can mean a display showing the charge capacity or percent capacity as a number. Some BMS systems can notify you if there is suddenly a sharp capacity drop, for example caused by surge damage.

7. Battery Maintenance: Remember, it’s not just the big game that matters, but the routine training sessions, too. Regular battery maintenance is crucial in extending its lifespan. Keep an eye out for any physical deformations, swelling, or excessive heat during operation. These could signal problems that need immediate attention. Use an effective battery management circuitry to keep things in check.
8. Choosing the Right Battery: Consider the energy needs of your home or workplace. Not every player is suited to every position on the rugby field. Similarly, not all lithium-ion batteries are made equal. Variations exist, for example, some batteries trade some energy density for increased stability and safety. It’s about matching the right battery to the right role. And for commercial applications, lithium battery packs made to withstand the higher demand of corporations, with built-in battery management systems and cooling systems to keep temperatures within a safe range would be ideal.
9. Alternate Materials: Recent advancements in battery technology have introduced alternative materials in the construction of battery cells, such as graphite anodes or batteries with titanate anodes. These innovations can offer different charge/discharge characteristics, enhancing lifespan and reducing safety risks. It’s like upgrading your braai from a simple charcoal grill to a high-tech gas model.
10. Recycle Your Batteries: When it comes to battery life, it’s not just about duration, but also what happens at the end of it. Proper disposal and recycling of batteries is crucial to reduce environmental impact. It’s about passing the baton and ensuring the next race can be run.

To fully leverage the benefits of lithium-ion batteries in overcoming our energy challenges, we need to view them as part of a broader energy ecosystem. Alongside innovations like solar power and wind energy, Li-ion batteries can play a crucial role in providing energy storage solutions, which are particularly valuable during peak load periods or power outages.

How to Use Lithium Batteries at Home?

Consider how batteries can fit into your energy setup at home. A lithium battery wall mount, such as the Hubble Lithium Battery Wall Mount, can be an efficient way to store power and ensure you’re never left in the dark when the power goes out. These backup power solutions are becoming increasingly important as our energy grid struggles with increased demand and infrastructure challenges.

Where to Get Started with Lithium Ion Batteries?

So, as we power ahead into a future filled with promising energy solutions, it’s clear that Li-ion batteries will play an important role in our energy toolkit. But remember, just like a well-kept cricket pitch, proper care and maintenance are critical to keep these batteries performing optimally for as long as possible. With these lithium-ion batting tips, you’re sure to hit energy savings right out of the park!

If you’re looking for insights, advice, and tips and tricks for your unique power needs, you can talk to PHD Powerhouse today. We’re experts in power solutions customised to your situation and can help you find the solutions you need to help your business or home with backup power that won’t falter. Even if load shedding hits. We’re ready to take your energy game to the next level!

If you’re a South African homeowner or business owner, grounding and surge protection should matter to you. Yes, we’re talking about a topic that might not be the most glamorous, but it’s crucial to the safety and functionality of your electronic devices. Let’s learn about what grounding and surge protection is and why it is so important for South African homes and businesses.

What is Grounding and Why is it Important?

Let’s start with grounding. This is all about creating a direct physical connection between your electrical system and the earth. Why is that important, you might ask? Well, it’s all about safety. If there’s a fault in your electrical system and an electrical current escapes from its intended path, grounding gives it a direct path to the earth, where it can safely dissipate.

But grounding isn’t just about safety. It’s also important for the proper functioning of your electrical devices. Without a proper ground, static electricity can build up and cause damage to your devices. Think of it as a protective device that is essential for every building.

What is Surge Protection and Why is it Important?

Now, let’s talk about surge protection. A power surge happens when there’s a sudden, brief increase in voltage in an electrical circuit. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as lightning strikes, power outages, or even just turning on a high-powered appliance.

These power surges can be extremely damaging to your electronic devices, causing them to malfunction or even completely break down. This is especially relevant now that regular load shedding occurs, where the sudden cut or sudden return of electricity can often be accompanied by a burst of power. Surge protection is all about preventing these surge events from causing damage.

How Surge Protection Works

Surge protectors work by diverting the excess voltage from a power surge away from your electronic devices and into the ground. This is achieved through the use of surge arrester devices, which are designed to handle high-voltage currents.

There are a wide variety of surge protectors available, each with different features and capabilities. Some surge protectors are designed to protect a single device, while others can protect an entire home or business. Surge protection power strips are common for domestic use, while larger surge protective devices may be installed for commercial applications.

The Importance of Surge Protection in South Africa

South Africa is a country that experiences a high frequency of lightning strikes, which can cause direct and indirect power surges that can damage electronic equipment. Additionally, South Africa has an unreliable power grid, which can cause power outages and voltage fluctuations that can also cause surges. We are all familiar with frequent load shedding, and unfortunately, the electrical energy surges that come with switching power plants on and off so frequently are likely to be causing damage to your electronics already.

For these reasons, surge protection is especially important in South Africa. It can help prevent damage to your electronic devices and keep them running smoothly, even in the face of direct lightning strikes or power outages. You won’t need to worry about the initial surges of power when your load shedding ends, and with the right grounding, you can also leave things plugged into your wall outlets without concern.

Choosing the Right Surge Protection Device

When it comes to surge protection, it’s important to choose the right device for your needs. The most important factor to consider is the surge protection device type and its current ratings.

It’s also important to consider the circuit path that your connected equipment takes, as well as the protected load that the surge protector is designed to handle. Digital systems panels and electrical systems that are sensitive to transient voltages require specialised surge protectors to prevent unwanted surge energy from damaging the equipment.

Don’t Forget About Grounding

While surge protection is important, it’s also crucial to ensure that your electrical systems are properly grounded. This means ensuring that all electrical devices are connected to conductive systems that provide a direct path to the earth.

Grounding and surge protection work together to keep your electronic devices safe and functioning properly, even in the face of direct lightning strikes or other electrical disturbances.

Speak to Our Experts for a Solution

If you’re unsure about the best way to protect your electronic devices from power surges and ensure proper grounding, don’t hesitate to speak to one of our experts. Our team of qualified professionals can provide you with a personalised solution to meet your specific needs.

We understand that every home or business has unique electrical requirements, and we’re committed to helping you find the best solution to protect your electronic equipment and connected devices. Our range of surge protection and grounding solutions includes surge protectors, surge arresters, and circuit breakers designed to limit surge currents and unwanted surge energy.

Our surge protection devices also come in different types and current ratings to meet the diverse needs of homes and businesses. We believe that a well-designed electrical system is essential to the efficient operation of any home or business.

Do I Need to Worry About Grounding & Surge Protection at My Home or Business?

Grounding and surge protection are essential components of any electrical system, and they play a crucial role in protecting your electronic devices from damage caused by electrical disturbances. By installing the right surge protection and grounding solutions, you can ensure that your electronic devices and other equipment remain safe and function properly. The only time you will need to worry is if you have not already ensured grounding and surge protection are in place.

At PHD Powerhouse, we’re committed to providing high-quality surge protection and grounding solutions for homes and businesses in South Africa. Our experts can provide you with personalised solutions tailored to your specific needs. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact us today to speak to our experts and find out how we can help protect your electronic devices and ensure proper grounding for your home or business.

South Africans are no strangers to stage 6 load shedding, and many people are searching for ways to power their homes without the help of the national grid. If you enjoy lots of direct sunlight, you could use solar battery power and a solar inverter to generate and store your own electricity off-grid.

Installing an inverter is a popular way to avoid the effects of load shedding in South Africa. They’re relatively affordable, depending on how you look at it, and they can provide hours of power to small electronics while homes go without electricity.

What is an Inverter?

Before we go further, let’s quickly catch up on what an inverter actually is. It’s an electrical device that converts direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). It can also be a battery-based system used to run household appliances through conventional wiring.

You can find two types of inverters in South Africa: modified sine wave, and sine wave. Sine wave inverters are the more expensive option but perform more optimally. But there’s something to be said for a more affordable modified sine wave, especially when you’re desperate to have a little normalcy during hours of load shedding.

An inverter doesn’t produce energy on its own but rather stores it in an inverter battery for future use. Now that we’ve got that out the way, let’s look at the benefits of having an inverter in your home.

What Are the Benefits of Using an Inverter?

Tips to Keep in Mind for Your Inverter

To make the most of the benefits of these electronic devices, here are some things we recommend you keep in mind:

• Go for quality. You want an inverter that produces the ‘purest’ or ‘truest’ current wave as possible—but you do want to balance this with affordability.
• Understand your power requirements and get the right size inverter. An inverter without enough juice to power what you want is a waste of money. Inverters can have capacity from 100W to 4000W; it really all depends on what you want to do with it.
• Try not to let the batteries go flat. This can damage them and significantly and reduce the amount of time they last.
• Try not to overload the system. It’s recommended to aim to use 75% of the inverter’s capacity to keep it in good condition for as long as possible.
• Don’t buy refurbished batteries. They’re never quite the same as they were in their original condition.
• Talk to the experts in inverters. If you’re looking at a larger system, it’s a good idea to call in the experts to design and install it for you. You wouldn’t want to spend a fortune on larger inverters if they’re not going to work optimally. Experts will also know where to find the best vertical surface for installation.

Looking to reduce the time during load shedding that gives you the blues? At PHD Powerhouse, we specialise in alternative power supply solutions that can keep you sane during grey-outs. We have offices throughout South Africa—in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. Send us a message from wherever you are, and we’ll get back to you.