How Does an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Work?
We often refer to UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies) as battery backup systems. These provide backup power when we experience a range of power conditions from our regular power source. If you experience surges, power outages, load shedding, or other anomalies, you may need a UPS to protect your electronic devices.
They are a great standby when voltage levels drop, and we experience power anomalies that could damage sensitive electronics. UPS systems allow the safe shutdown of your PC and other equipment to avoid damage. When there is a power failure, you may also get a limited time-period to work or complete tasks before shutting down your computers.
The design and the size of your UPS system all depend on how long users need a power supply. Each size has a different runtime. Assess your power requirements before choosing the size you need.
How Much Uninterruptible Power Supply Will I Need?
Different UPS configurations provide varying levels of power protection from power surges, outages, and other anomalies. Here are a few of the most common options, their efficiency, and their ideal usage.
Topology of a Standby UPS System
1. Standby UPS is the most basic of UPS systems.
2. The system resorts to battery backup power when we experience common power problems. Common problems include dips and spikes, blackouts, and brownouts.
3. When the power utility dips or spikes, the uninterruptible power supply switches your power to the battery. This then inverts the power to AC power which runs any equipment connected.
Topology of a Line UPS System
1. A UPS Line system incorporates technology that corrects minor power fluctuations. These include under-voltage and over-voltage case scenarios.
2. The Line UPS System corrects these without switching to battery power.
Your Line UPS System has an autotransformer that regulates the voltage.
4. We usually use Line UPS Systems for electrical equipment such as gaming systems, home theatre systems, and other electronic equipment needing protection.
5. Your Line-Interactive UPS system provides stable power when we have power spikes or dips. This system does not offer maximum protection.
Topology of a Double-Conversion UPS System
1. You will enjoy consistent, clean, and almost perfect uninterrupted power using a double-conversion UPS system.
2. You will get real power 100% of the time with this technology which operates on isolated DC power.
3. Your connected load and all critical loads are protected with a double-conversion UPS system.
4. Protected electrical apparatus loads include IT (Information Technology) equipment, data center installations, high-end servers, large telecom installations, and storage applications.
5. Expect nothing short of maximum reliability with these high-power rectifiers. Load levels caused by power blackouts, dips, and overvoltage surges are protected.
Why UPS Systems Play a Necessary Role
Basic features and input power factors play a role in UPS systems. There is a wide range of UPS options that will offer maximum reliability and a supply of electricity when the power goes out. This is also the case for when the utility power returns.
Ensure your supply of electricity is uninterrupted until normal operations return. You can achieve this with these power inverters. Looking for a UPS? We have an extensive range of products and options to suite every budget and need.
Can Solar Power Help Solve the South African Energy Crisis?
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminLoad shedding has become part and parcel of South Africa’s way of life. What is the solution to the power utility crisis? More and more South Africans are finding alternative ways of powering their world with alternate access to electricity. Renewable sources such as solar could be one solution to the energy challenge.
How is South Africa addressing the energy crisis in the country?
Eskom conducts load shedding by implementing a series of planned power outages. Unreliable electricity is the order of the day! The power utility has implemented load shedding to help maintain the state infrastructure and power stations.
Eskom is struggling with increased electricity demand, and independent power producers have not officially been introduced into the system as a solution yet. Many South Africans are finding alternative energy sources because of the current energy shortage.
Some of these include solar panels. Solar energy is a cleaner energy source that can help you pay fewer electricity tariffs. It is time to find solutions, as electricity users are struggling through rolling blackouts.
Is solar an affordable supply of energy?
South Africa enjoys many sunny days throughout the year. As energy demand increases on the country’s main power utility, solar energy could be a very viable and attainable solution. Renewable energy is clean and affordable; the perfect answer to the energy woes in Southern Africa.
Most areas in Southern Africa are getting seven hours of sunlight daily. Personal solar photovoltaic systems could be the answer. The average household in South Africa consumes 10kWh energy daily.
A single, average solar panel exposed to seven hours of sunlight can give your household 2KwH of power. With a few panels on the roof, any household in Sub-Saharan Africa’s warm climate can do away with coal-fired power plants.
Renewable Energy Projects Face Energy Storage Difficulties
The storage of energy is a difficulty. This is the situation with many personal power systems throughout South Africa. Stage 4 load shedding means users are out of power for 48 hours across 8 days!
You would need to use 16 deep cycle batteries to store 48 hours of energy. We will need two of these batteries to survive four hour periods of load-shedding.
Solar is slowly moving consumers away from total dependency on coal. It is not up to individuals alone to start using solar. Eskom needs to introduce larger solar power systems to service South Africa as a whole.
Other energy initiatives also need to be introduced. Most South Africans are not able to move away entirely from the grid. As load shedding continues, it will affect public institutions, private individuals, businesses, and our economic growth.
Contact our offices in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. Alternatively, fill out our easy form and tell us what you need. We offer a range of solar products. Perhaps this is the future of South Africa!
Source: renewableenergyworld.com
4 Smart Ways to Keep Your Business Going During Load Shedding
/in PHD Blog /by siteadmin1. Get to Know Your Schedule.
Go one step smarter and get schedules of other areas in South Africa if you are a business owner. There are many user-friendly apps that are available to assist. Find out about load shedding from areas where you get your deliveries or stock and always be on top of your game.
With so many easy-to-use apps available about load shedding schedules, there is no excuse to be caught unprepared. If your business is expecting deliveries of any description, find out their schedule. Call ahead of time and arrange alternative delivery times.
Communication is key in managing delays. It is a smart move to find suppliers that have backup solutions. Putting these steps in place could assist with minimising operational interruptions. Ensure there is someone to receive the goods, so they don’t spoil if delivered out of schedule.
2. Be Flexible When Running Your Business During Load Shedding.
During the COVID-19 pandemic the entire work landscape has changed. Many people now use mobile devices such as laptops and a cell phone to work from home. Employees should work remotely wherever possible.
It is time to get those creative juices flowing when managing a team. Clarify goals to ensure everyone understands what they have to get done – even during load shedding periods. Specific objectives put in place will have a huge impact on your team.
Schedule regular meetings at set times where everyone will clock in and clock out. This will help keep everyone abreast of projects. If you’re worried about tech devices or power cuts disrupting your online meetings and internet connections, you can get peace of mind with surge protectors and a power bank or deep cycle batteries for each staff member.
Our range of UPS back-up power systems and other products will safeguard your sensitive electronic devices. At PHD Powerhouse, we offer solutions to your pressing power problems.
3. Keep the Shine Going During Dark Times.
Working remotely and away from your colleagues can be tough. Many businesses in South Africa have gone the remote-working route. Keeping your shine going is difficult, especially during a pandemic.
A power failure will not help the situation. Now, more than ever, it is important to look at the bright side of life. We offer a range of UPS systems to keep you going when the lights go down. Have a look at our catalogue to find out which system will fit in with your needs.
You can watch TV, charge your phone, and boil your kettle – depending on the size UPS in use! It is not all doom and gloom. Get your positive juices flowing and look at load shedding as an opportunity and not a calamity.
4. Use Out-of-the-Box Ideas to Keep Going During Power Outages.
South Africa has load shedding. This is the reality. The secret to overcoming the impact of load shedding is by being smart. Think out of the box and find ways to keep making money, no matter what.
One of these is backup power, and finding various uninterruptible power supplies to assist. South African companies are getting smart power solutions to overcome challenges when the power utility has power cuts. Protect against a power surge with battery power backup systems.
We offer a range of products to keep your power up and running, no matter what! Make sure your servers have power over night and that all your power requirements are met, all in one place.
We have the answers to your power woes. Contact us to find out more!
Source: miway.co.za
Which UPS is Best for Home? Your Guide to Choosing a UPS
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminChoosing the Right UPS for Your Home.
The reality we face is a world where load shedding happens almost daily. An uninterruptible power supply is one of the best investments you can make in a world where many of us work and function online. Keep everything running during a power failure. Make a cup of tea and carry on working with the right UPS for your home.
You can protect sensitive electronics with uninterrupted power supply. Make sure your LCD screen and Wi-Fi router stays on when you experience power cuts. Avoid dangerous surges by maintaining a constant power supply even when power failures occur in your area. Automatic voltage regulation can increase the lifespan of your expensive electronics.
There are 3 Different Types of Uninterruptible Power Supply Systems
Voltage? Price? Size? You Get What You Pay for When Buying a UPS.
Many surge protection systems sold in South Africa are imported from China. Large international manufacturers use the same Chinese manufacturer with a couple of tweaks to make make it their own. The three key UPS systems use different technologies for the best backup power solutions.
1. Offline UPS Devices
Offline UPS systems have a battery charger large enough to charge the UPS battery. This UPS system runs off battery power, which is key to power the whole system. The inverter is unable to run at its rated VA capacity for long periods.
It is designed to the limits of the inverter’s components. Offline UPS Systems usually start overheating after about 20 minutes. Your offline UPS system is the one most households buy.
When investing in a UPS system, it is advisable to do your homework first. This will avoid disappointment. PHD Powerhouse offers a range of UPS systems to fit a variety of requirements.
Your offline UPS system is always switched off, except when it is charging the battery. The inverter will connect in a couple of seconds and feed the connected load with its inverter. This takes place until the battery runs flat.
Most IT loads are not affected by the switch-on time of the inverter. An offline UPS is inexpensive and an easy solution for backup loads. It cannot, however, handle heavy loads such as kettles and geysers.
2. Line Interactive UPS Protection
Line-interactive UPSs have a battery charger that only charges the UPS backup battery. The inverter is always on. This does not supply the load.
Your line interactive UPS system follows the mains AC supply. If the mains AC supply goes down, your Line Interactive UPS System takes over. The inverter is on the switch-on to inverter time. The switch on time is shorter and more user-friendly for sensitive loads.
Your line-interactive UPS system is usually fitted with an AVR (automatic voltage regulator). This device will help regulate the mains supply feeding the load under normal power supply conditions. It is therefore more stable.
3. Online Double-Conversion Uninterrupted Power Supply
An online double-conversion UPS system is your top-of-range UPS backup system. Enjoy ultimate power stability for critical loads that are connected to your UPS device. Your online double-conversion UPS system will work for long periods with superior battery life.
This is the best solution when you next experience a power outage. You need not worry that your sensitive equipment will get damaged with superior battery backup. If this UPS system is in your price range, you should consider investing in one. This will work for longer periods.
Why you Should Invest in a UPS. Your Number One Partner to Help in the Dark!
Experiencing power cuts? Now you can keep working, make that special cup of tea, and carry on like nothing is happening. It’s all possible with the right UPS device.
We have our footprint in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban. South Africans from all walks of life are making use of superior products from PHD Powerhouse. And you can too!
Find out more today about PHD’s excellent range of UPS systems. Never get left in the dark again with our power.
Sources: standbysystems;
How to Protect Your Electronics During Outages
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminYou can easily protect your sensitive electronic equipment from being damaged. Surges are guilty of zapping your electrical appliances and sensitive electronics. You can now avoid damaging your electronics by applying a couple of smart steps. We tell you how simple the process is.
You Can Put Your Mind At Rest With These Suggestions
Learn more about surges. Save money and protect your property.
Do You Want to Protect Your Devices Any Way Possible?
Have you ever wondered what it looks like? Will it really help me?
Contact Us Today to Protect Your Electrical Devices! You can get a free quote on a range of devices – just send us a message. Or you could call us in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban. PHD Powerhouse is offering clients reliable power solutions in a world where power supply is challenging!
Your Ultimate Load Shedding Survival Kit
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminHow to Stop Losing Money Because of Load Shedding
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminRolling blackouts are here to stay. This is not doing small businesses in South Africa any favours. These power cuts can cost us. A diesel generator might seem like a good solution, but a generator can be noisy, and it may not address all the issues we face with sudden power cuts, such as power surges.
We Are Experiencing a Power Crisis. What Can Be Done?
Load shedding is not doing our economy any favours. Least of all small to medium businesses. The economy in South Africa is growing, and with it, the electricity demand is increasing. Many small business owners are losing customers and revenue every time the power goes off.
Some small business owners claim they are losing as much as 20% in revenue. We need to think out of the box and ask ourselves how we can fix the challenges we face with a power utility that has become unreliable.
Switching Over to Solar Can Save Your Revenue
Power disruptions are debilitating. We face power surges, blackouts, and brownouts regularly. But there are certain steps to take to avoid further city power challenges. Solar can be a feasible solution that addresses all the challenges arising from constant load shedding.
5 Reasons Why Switching to Solar Is a Good Move
It is time to switch to solar. This could benefit your small to medium business on many levels. Here are 5 benefits to consider:
It’s Time to Switch to Solar for Your Business
Power outages in South Africa are a reality. Load shedding isn’t going anywhere. Don’t risk losing revenue because of our unreliable power utility.
Installing solar power to run your business is a step in the right direction. The impact of load will no longer be an ongoing challenge. Microbusinesses rely on every Rand spent.
Widespread load shedding needs to be addressed. Why rely on state-owned electricity power, if you can make a difference? We should all be resourceful by tackling this challenge head-on.
This Guide to the Workings of UPS is All You Need to Know
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminHow Does an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) Work?
We often refer to UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supplies) as battery backup systems. These provide backup power when we experience a range of power conditions from our regular power source. If you experience surges, power outages, load shedding, or other anomalies, you may need a UPS to protect your electronic devices.
They are a great standby when voltage levels drop, and we experience power anomalies that could damage sensitive electronics. UPS systems allow the safe shutdown of your PC and other equipment to avoid damage. When there is a power failure, you may also get a limited time-period to work or complete tasks before shutting down your computers.
The design and the size of your UPS system all depend on how long users need a power supply. Each size has a different runtime. Assess your power requirements before choosing the size you need.
How Much Uninterruptible Power Supply Will I Need?
Different UPS configurations provide varying levels of power protection from power surges, outages, and other anomalies. Here are a few of the most common options, their efficiency, and their ideal usage.
Topology of a Standby UPS System
1. Standby UPS is the most basic of UPS systems.
2. The system resorts to battery backup power when we experience common power problems. Common problems include dips and spikes, blackouts, and brownouts.
3. When the power utility dips or spikes, the uninterruptible power supply switches your power to the battery. This then inverts the power to AC power which runs any equipment connected.
Topology of a Line UPS System
1. A UPS Line system incorporates technology that corrects minor power fluctuations. These include under-voltage and over-voltage case scenarios.
2. The Line UPS System corrects these without switching to battery power.
Your Line UPS System has an autotransformer that regulates the voltage.
4. We usually use Line UPS Systems for electrical equipment such as gaming systems, home theatre systems, and other electronic equipment needing protection.
5. Your Line-Interactive UPS system provides stable power when we have power spikes or dips. This system does not offer maximum protection.
Topology of a Double-Conversion UPS System
1. You will enjoy consistent, clean, and almost perfect uninterrupted power using a double-conversion UPS system.
2. You will get real power 100% of the time with this technology which operates on isolated DC power.
3. Your connected load and all critical loads are protected with a double-conversion UPS system.
4. Protected electrical apparatus loads include IT (Information Technology) equipment, data center installations, high-end servers, large telecom installations, and storage applications.
5. Expect nothing short of maximum reliability with these high-power rectifiers. Load levels caused by power blackouts, dips, and overvoltage surges are protected.
Why UPS Systems Play a Necessary Role
Basic features and input power factors play a role in UPS systems. There is a wide range of UPS options that will offer maximum reliability and a supply of electricity when the power goes out. This is also the case for when the utility power returns.
Ensure your supply of electricity is uninterrupted until normal operations return. You can achieve this with these power inverters. Looking for a UPS? We have an extensive range of products and options to suite every budget and need.
How to Prevent Damage to Your Electronics during Load Shedding
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminLoad shedding has become part of our lives. You need to do everything possible to prevent damaging your electronic devices. The best protection against damage due to power surges is prevention. Ensure you unplug all sensitive equipment and remove all your appliances from plugs and electrical outlets when you know load shedding is about to start or if there are lightning storms brewing.
We show you how to protect your electronic equipment by investing in simple devices that will do the job efficiently. Installing protective devices is a smart move. These include surge protectors and a UPS power supply with a surge protector.
Load shedding is part of our lives. How to protect my devices when the lights go out:
We have learned to live with load shedding; or have we? Your devices need protection from the instability of the power grid. Load shedding can and will reduce the longevity of your electrics. Load shedding will damage sensitive electrical appliances and devices either short or long-term.
Disconnect everything before load shedding begins or while it is happening. This will avoid potential problems from arising when the power goes off switches back on. There are many ways to protect electronics. Disconnecting is perhaps the best and cheapest preventative measure. The most damage happens when the power comes back on. This is when the power surges throughout your grid supply and electrical equipment.
How can I benefit from investing in regulators, UPS systems, and inverters?
Your best protection against damage is investing in inexpensive power strips. Simply plug and play. Power strips have built-in protection against surges. You can buy these surge protection devices at a nominal cost from most electrical outlets and hardware shops.
You can also get a surge protector installed on your main electrical board (or your electrical distribution board). An electrician should install it for your protection. Surge protectors for your plug adaptors are easy to find and easier to install. You don’t need an electrician to install these. Simply plug and play.
Now might be the right time to shop around for new insurance.
Does your insurance cover electronic damage because of power cuts, power surges, lightning strikes, and other damage? If not, it might be time to source more comprehensive cover. Examine the fine print on your policy to make sure it covers power outages and resulting damage to equipment before you sign.
We are making a difference in protecting your electrical equipment.
Don’t leave protecting your electronics to chance. Our wide range of devices at PHD Powerhouse will ensure we keep your electrical devices out of harm’s way.
Call us today without delay to protect your expensive equipment against all power eventualities.
Ways to Keep the Lights on During Load Shedding in South Africa
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminWe are working from home, studying from home, and shopping online. When the lights go down during load shedding, our lives grind to a halt. It is time to do something when we experience a loss of power. Failure to do so could cause a disruption in your daily operations. Eskom has warned us that cuts will be something we are going to deal with as South Africa’s power grid remains under pressure.
Reliability is the key to staying connected in South Africa. What level of efficiency are we seeking when load shedding takes place? Staying connected nowadays is a challenge. We show you how to stay connected, even if Eskom imposes debilitating cuts. All industries will benefit from these tips, regardless of size. We can manage power failures and keep our power on despite load shedding.
A UPS System Can Keep You and Your Small Enterprise Connected
You can keep everything on by protecting your devices. Invest in a program that backs up your data and make sure it saves your work in the cloud to protect your files. This level of efficiency will take your business to the next level and ensure you never lose an important document ever again.
Invest in UPS equipment to prevent damage to your electronic devices. Your UPS battery back-up system is a brilliant way to keep your networking functioning during outages. Install UPS systems for each person to keep functioning. You can also connect certain electrical devices to one UPS system, and the rest to another.
Use one for each of your computers, television sets, and other devices. These usually consume an exorbitant amount of power. Use a smaller UPS system for the balance of your equipment.
Many companies and households have generators to keep operating during an outage. These are run off batteries or fuel, depending on the size and make. Others use solar panels to supplement their power during rotational power cuts like the load shedding we’re experiencing.
Consider Safety First in Your Small Business When the Power Goes Out
You and your team members need to know what to do when load shedding hits. You need to keep the loss of revenue to a minimum. There should be a plan of action in place for emergencies.
Do something smart and keep your lights on. Do more by keeping your internet connection functioning. PHD Powerhouse offers UPS systems that will ensure your network keeps functioning during load shedding.
UPS devices have come a long way. We have created them to maximise your internet connectivity when you experience outages in South Africa. Our backup power and range of batteries will keep you connected. This source of backup power will have enough runtime to ensure you keep functioning.
We’re Here to Help Keep You Connected
PHD Powerhouse offers you a wide range of UPS systems (Uninterruptible Power Supply), and batteries to assist. Keep everything running by applying smart methods. The right size of batteries and devices will keep you up and running for a couple of hours until the power returns.
These power packs will prepare you. We offer a wide range of batteries and UPS sizes. Generators also have their place to keep the lights on. It will all depend on the number of electrical devices you are planning to connect to the UPS system.
Use power banks (portable chargers) to keep you connected. This will ensure it does not affect you during Eskom power outages. Be sure to check your schedule. This will give you the advantage. Blackouts are not pleasant. The more ready you are, the better. Electricity plays an integral part in our lives.
Load shedding, it seems, is here to stay. The question is which system works best for you. Learn more about what we offer by calling us. Let us take a load off your shoulders with device options to suite your needs.
How to Fight Load Shedding in 2021
/in PHD Blog /by siteadminAs load shedding becomes an everyday occurrence, you can apply many smart hacks. This will keep you happy and functioning. Eskom has upped its game and load shedding seems to be here to stay. At least for the immediate future.
We cannot do anything about load shedding, but we can make it a more comfortable experience when it happens. Power outages are influencing the way we are working online. Load shedding plays havoc on our devices.
Five Smart Things to Do When the Lights Go Out
1. Go Solar.
Installing a solar geyser is the most cost-effective thing you will ever do. It will save you an untold amount of money. Investing in solar lights makes sense, especially on the perimeter of your property.
2. LED is the Smart Way to Light Up.
LED lights are easy to buy at your local hardware store. They will give you enough light when you are plunged into darkness during load shedding. Keep them charged to ensure they offer you enough lighting. Many come with USB ports that will solve your recharging issues.
3. Think Out of the Box.
Charging all your electronic devices, phones, PCs, and laptops will give you opportunities to keep busy during load shedding. You can listen to music, watch movies, and keep connected when the lights go out. It is important to load an App so that they always keep you in the loop when to expect load shedding. Forewarned is forearmed.
4. Protect Your Electronics.
Unplugging your cable is the cheapest way to protect your electronic equipment. Unplug these from the walls as a socket plugged in is still live. This applies to power surges, which is one of the biggest causes of damaging equipment.
5. Make Load Shedding Easier.
It is easy and effective to get a multi-plug with a built-in fuse. It is a simple concept. When surges occur, it will activate the fuses inside the plug. This is a circuit-breakers and cuts the connection to the mains. This will save any appliances or equipment connected to the plug.
6. The PHD Powerhouse Difference
Making a difference to the way you protect your electrical equipment and keep the lights on is what we do best. From solar to surge protection devices, UPS, and more. We are making a difference in the way you live and the way we operate online. Get a quote today and make a difference to your life by keeping the lights on and glowing in an otherwise dark world.