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
- Always UPS your router — even if nothing else, keep your internet alive
- Set your laptop to charge at 80% — batteries last longer this way
- UPS your CCTV — criminals know when the power goes off
- Test your UPS monthly — pull the plug and confirm it switches over
- 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 💬 WhatsApp: 082 556 9875 🛒 Shop UPS systems online →
