# UPS & Inverter Guide for Loadshedding (South Africa 2026)
Loadshedding isn't going away anytime soon. Here's how to keep your critical tech running when Eskom can't.
## UPS vs Inverter — What's the difference?
**UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)**
- Instant switchover (0ms) — your PC won't even blink
- Designed for: computers, servers, network equipment, POS systems
- Runtime: 15–60 minutes depending on size
- Best for: keeping you working long enough to save and shut down properly
**Inverter + Battery**
- Switchover: 5–20ms (fine for most electronics, not ideal for servers)
- Designed for: running lights, TV, Wi-Fi, fridge during full loadshedding stages
- Runtime: 2–8 hours depending on batteries
- Best for: keeping your household running through a 2.5-hour slot
## What size UPS do you need?
| Equipment | Watts | Recommended UPS |
|-----------|-------|-----------------|
| Desktop PC + monitor | 300–500W | 1000VA / 600W |
| Laptop + router | 80–120W | 650VA / 360W |
| Gaming PC | 500–800W | 1500VA / 900W |
| POS system + printer | 200–400W | 1000VA / 600W |
| Server + switch | 400–800W | 2000VA / 1200W |
| CCTV NVR + cameras (PoE) | 100–200W | 1000VA / 600W |
**Rule of thumb:** Your UPS wattage should be 1.5× your total equipment watts.
## Our UPS recommendations
### For home offices:
- **APC Back-UPS 650VA** — budget option, 15 min runtime for a laptop + router
- **APC Smart-UPS 1000VA** — pure sine wave, good for desktop PC + monitor
### For businesses:
- **APC Smart-UPS 1500VA** — covers a POS + PC + router
- **APC Smart-UPS 3000VA (rack)** — for server rooms and multiple workstations
- **Eaton 5P 1550VA** — excellent for network closets
### For CCTV:
- **Dedicated 1000VA UPS on the NVR** — keeps recording during loadshedding
- **PoE switch with UPS** — keeps cameras powered even without mains
## Tips for surviving loadshedding
1. **Always UPS your router** — even if nothing else, keep your internet alive
2. **Set your laptop to charge at 80%** — batteries last longer this way
3. **UPS your CCTV** — criminals know when the power goes off
4. **Test your UPS monthly** — pull the plug and confirm it switches over
5. **Replace UPS batteries every 2–3 years** — they degrade over time
## Need help?
We sell, install, and maintain UPS systems and inverters for homes and businesses across the South Coast.
📞 Call: [039 314 4359](tel:0393144359)
💬 WhatsApp: [082 556 9875](https://wa.me/27825569875)
🛒 [Shop UPS systems online →](/products?category=accessories)
[Contact us for UPS sizing advice →](/contact)
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