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Can I boil my kettle, boot my computer, and watch television from my home UPS unit? The answer is yes. This is 100% dependent on the capabilities of the backup power systems you invest in.

What Backup Power Solutions Do I Need to Run My Home?

With a wide range of units available to run your sensitive equipment, we spoil you for choice. Power outages and load shedding should not put you at a disadvantage. Find smart ways for continuous output power with a long period of backup time at PHD Powerhouse.

You can choose from reliable power supplies such as a UPS, battery band and inverter system, a home solar system, or a generator. The one you choose depends on the backup times you will need power for. For extra long back-up times, a generator or power bank could be ideal. For no switchover time, choose a UPS system.

What Happens to my Computer System When the Power Goes Out?

If I plug my computer into my inverter or UPS system, the power source will continue with no interruption. Your internet connection will continue as before. Any electronic equipment will continue working, including essential appliances with low wattage needs.

There is no need for a noisy generator to survive power failures. The transfer switch on a UPS clicks in automatically.

The national grid is unstable. Ensure you have enough battery capacity to keep every electrical appliance running with a battery bank or UPS for power failures. Our units are true sine wave UPS systems. This translates into no interruptions when the lights go out.

Can I Run Fridges and Freezers Off Home UPS Systems?

Direct current does not differ from the source of power from the grid. All your electrical equipment can easily operate off your uninterrupted power supply. You will not experience a power break, nor will you have any background noise on your electrical equipment. Modified sine wave inverters and UPS systems cause electrical appliances to run noisily.

Will all My Electronic Timers and Clocks Still Work Well?

Your output power from your UPS does not differ from your standard input power. All your power devices run the same. Clocks and timers are not affected. This is vital when recording and using a timer. This is unlike your modified sinewave inverter unit.

Modified sine wave uses older technology, and there could be a change in timers when using it.

Will My Unit Get Damaged Through Overloading? 

Uninterruptible power supplies automatically switch off when overloaded. Removing the responsible connected load will correct the problem immediately. You can tell it’s overloaded if it suddenly switches off when you plug in cell phone chargers or other small load items.

Find Out Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Battery Back-Up Systems

PHD Powerhouse has a wide range of back-up systems for all applications. If you are keen to lower your power consumption, we have the answers for you. Solar power is one solution when going off grid power.

Find out more and contact us today about protecting your electronic equipment. We show you how to keep the lights on.

Do you have a long-term load shedding solution in place?

Do you have a long-term load shedding solution in place?

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Smart Ways to Beat Load Shedding

With load shedding back in full swing in South Africa, there are smart ways to beat the load shedding blues. Some solutions include installing solar, using generators, and buying UPS systems.

You need not lose productivity if you lose power. Get smart and stay connected when the power is out. There are many clever strategies you can put in place to make the most of downtime!

How Do I Get the Right Equipment as a Tech Back-Up?

By investing in top-notch UPS systems and power protection, you can protect your tech. You can also keep functioning until the lights come back on. Get all the latest back-up options at low cost! PHD Powerhouse keeps a wide range of equipment to back you up.

Why do Surge Protectors Play an Important Role?

  • Surge protectors are essential.
  • They protect your equipment from dips and surges.
  • It’s so easy. Simply plug a surge protector. You can do this directly into the wall socket.
  • They are an inexpensive option that will reduce the risk of surges damaging expensive equipment.

Which System is Best for Emergency Power?

  • Choose alternative forms of power when the lights go out.
  • Generators and UPS systems will give you that essential back-up power during power outages.
  • Generators need fuel. Remember to factor in the extra costs of running a generator. Managing a generator could be the solution you need.
  • A UPS system is essential for remote work. Keep functioning until the lights go on. Find out which one suits you best. PHD Powerhouse offers a wide range of UPS systems to suit a wide range of applications.

How Can I Keep the Lights on at a Low Cost?

  • Solar-powered lights are a great option.
  • There are many options one can invest in. Visit your local hardware store and stock up on nifty LED lighting options.
  • Choose lights with USB ports to charge your phone! 

How Can I Still Cook When the Lights Go Out?

  • Invest in a small solar cooker or a gas stove.
  • South Africans love to braai. This is another option when the lights go out and the weather is good.
  • A simple trick is to fill a flask with boiling water to make tea or coffee. Simple and efficient!

How Can I Stay Up to Date with the Latest Load Shedding Schedules?

  • If you have not downloaded the Eskom Se Push App, it is a great idea to do so!
  • Keep abreast of load shedding schedules and be prepared for the inevitable.
  • Keep connected to the right sources as load shedding schedules have the habit of changing frequently.

Find More Solutions by Visiting PHD Powerhouse Today!

Our range of products will protect your electronic equipment. Keep working even when the national grid power goes out. South Africans are a resourceful nation. We help you become even more so.

PHD Powerhouse South Africa has you covered for black outs and brown outs. We have your back when there are surges and dips. Our innovative range of UPS systems, solar systems, and other back-up power solutions can help you survive load shedding. Eskom might make life difficult, but we are here to make it easy!

 

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4 Smart Ways to Keep Your Business Going During Load Shedding

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The most efficient method for keeping abreast of load shedding in South Africa is to know your schedule. Being forewarned is being forearmed.

1. 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.

This is the #1 best method for keeping abreast of load shedding in your area.

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

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Which UPS is Best for Home? Your Guide to Choosing a UPS

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UPS systems come in different designs and use different methods to support varying backup loads. Find out which one is best for your home here.

Choosing 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

  1. Offline UPS systems.
  2. Line-interactive UPS systems.
  3. Online double-conversion UPS.

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;

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How to Protect Your Electronics During Outages

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Are you worried about how load-shedding and power surges can damage your electronics? Here’s how you can protect them.

You 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

  • You would probably find that there is an invisible enemy harming your devices without even realising it.
  • The culprit could be anything from lightning strikes, power dips, and spikes to brownouts or blackouts.
  • Electrical surges can damage your electronics too. These will  overload and short out the circuitry. This could then damage all your sensitive electronic equipment.
  • An invisible culprit may harm your devices, or they can degrade them. This could take place over a long period.
  • It is time to learn more about saving your money and protect your property.

Learn more about surges. Save money and protect your property.

Do You Want to Protect Your Devices Any Way Possible?

  • You need to install a surge protection device, which is a good idea. These are also referred to as SPDs.
  • It is so easy for you to take action. You can protect your devices by limiting transient voltages.
  • Your device is protected by installing SPDs. This takes place through the diversion and limitation of surging currents.
  • An SPD can also repeat these functions as specified.
  • We often refer to SPDs as Transient Voltage Surge Suppressors or Secondary Surge Arrestors.

Have you ever wondered what it looks like? Will it really help me?

  • You soon will learn that your SPD looks similar to a regular plug strip.
  • You need to know that your plug strip does not automatically offer protection from surges, so be alert to this challenge.
  • Unless it specifically says so, don’t assume your plug strip offers surge protection.
  • You can also install specific electrical outlets. These should offer your electronic adequate surge protection.
  • Surge protection outlets are useful in locations where there isn’t room for a plug-in surge protector. This could, for example, be a countertop in a kitchen.

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!

 

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Your Ultimate Load Shedding Survival Kit

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Do you wish you had a survival kit when the lights go out? Here’s our ultimate guide.

The lights have gone out – again – and you are wondering how you could make this better? Are you sick and tired of searching for the candles and dying for a cup of tea, but everything works off electricity? It is time to get smart, think outside the box, and compile a clever DIY load shedding survival kit.

Want More Light? Let Your Toolkit Do the Trick.

Don’t get left in the dark when load shedding catches you by surprise!

You need not be left in the dark when load shedding catches you by surprise and leaves you in the dark. Instead, you can put a handy DIY load shedding survival kit together to make it a pleasant experience.

Want to Make Your Very Own? Here’s How:

1. First Aid Kit.

You will need a first aid kit for emergencies. If you or one of your family members or staff has an accident, you will be pleased with this addition.

2. Matches or Lighter.

You have all the candles you need – but do you have matches or a lighter?

3. LED Torch.

First things first, though. You should have an LED torch for the first light source. Battery-powered LED lights and torches will give you enough emergency light. Your family members should each have their own emergency light and torch. Torches and LED lights are far safer than candles.

4. Charge Your LED.

You need to charge your LED lights and torches between bouts of blackouts. And you need spare batteries for battery-powered lights and torches.

5. Candle Stash.

Candles are a pleasant change from harsh lights when taking a leisurely bath or while eating dinner.

6. Primus Stove & Gas Lamp.

Investing in a small gas lamp or primus stove is great for providing warm water for coffee and warm light for conversation.

7. Invest in Power Banks or An Alternative Supply of Power.

Often, you could keep working on your laptop and keep charging your phone without too much expense. Solar power systems and generators are not the only options. Affordable power alternatives like a UPS can make a big difference and won’t cost too much.

Remember to Address These Challenges

  1. You might need to locate your emergency kit in the dark. You will need to keep it within your grasp. Once you’ve checked your load shedding schedule, ensure all your family members know where to find it.
  2. Keep your laptop and phone charged. Should your battery run flat, many LED lights have USB ports. These are significant investments.
  3. Be sure to keep some cash handy and your car’s petrol tank filled. Load shedding could also adversely affect petrol stations and ATMs during power outages.
  4. Keeping your phone charged all the time is important. This is important for emergencies and not only for when the lights go out. Make sure you’ve topped up your airtime.
  5. Don’t let load shedding get you down. Take advantage of spending quality time with your loved ones.

Act Now and Get a Quote Today!

Contact us today for a quote! Keep your electronic devices and lights on with a range of products we offer. Phone PHD Powerhouse in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban for the best advice. Or send us a message and we’ll get back to you regarding our reliable power solutions.

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How to Prevent Damage to Your Electronics during Load Shedding

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Load 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.