Installing an inverter in your home to keep the lights on
Category Newsletter: Article
According to the Bureau for Economic Research, load shedding could ease by 2024. For most South Africans, these predictions aren't reassuring.
Reading those forecasts, you may wonder what will easing load shedding look like.
Does it mean Stage 3 with Stage 6 sprinkled in for good measure? Is it Stage 1 or 2 consistently, or does it mean we never officially get to Stage 8?
Since it's unlikely that load shedding will end anytime soon, investing in an inverter is the best option.
Here's how to install one to ensure the lights stay on when Eskom fails to do its job.
5-Step Guide to Installing an Inverter
You have two options to keep the power for your home going during load shedding.
The first, get a portable power station to keep low-wattage appliances running. The second, connect an inverter to your distribution board that will trigger when the lights go off and keep all appliances going.
If you choose the latter, you should be adept in your electrical skills; otherwise, the first - and only - step would be to call an electrician.
If you possess electrical prowess, you could do it yourself and keep the lights, fridge, microwave, TV, and security systems going during load shedding.
1. Consider the Installation Location
You'll need to select a suitable location to install an inverter at home. Here are some tips to help you choose the right spot:
Avoid placing the inverter near any hazardous or flammable materials.
Do not expose it to moisture or water.
Choose a location that is shielded from direct sunlight.
Ensure there is ample space surrounding it.
2. Mount the Inverter
When mounting an inverter, you have two options to ensure proper installation: mount it perpendicular to a vertical or horizontal surface.
While mounting it, remember to lock the wheels to prevent movement during battery installation.
It's best to install it on a wall that is not prone to vibration (from pipes and circuit issues) and away from any flammable materials.
3. Install the Battery Backup
To install the battery, begin by removing the four screws that hold the rear panel to the main housing chassis. Then, carefully set the rear panel aside.
To access the inside, lift the top lid of the main housing chassis. Make sure to align the battery's long side with the front panel's length.
To install the first battery, place it through the rear openings with the positive terminal on the right side at the back of the main housing chassis.
To properly install the second battery, ensure the positive terminal is positioned towards the left. Carefully lift the battery and slide it into the main housing through the rear opening.
4. Check the Battery Cable
Make sure to verify the battery cable's connectivity and ensure there is low-resistance wiring between the inverter and the battery. This is necessary due to the low voltage high current input, enabling the electrical appliances connected with the inverter to receive the maximum usable energy.
5. Connect the Inverter
To install the inverter, position it on the main housing chassis with the inverter facing forward. Before beginning, turn off the power at the distribution board.
To connect the double-pole switch lighting circuit, connect one end of the electrical cable to the Inverter Assembly's rear panel Input connector through the provided IEC connector.
To set up, connect the electrical cable from the load to the provided IEC connector and attach it to the Output connector on the Inverter Assembly's rear panel.
To complete the task, make sure to attach the wiring harness from the batteries to the input connector located on the rear panel of the inverter.
To turn on the inverter, first switch on the power at the distribution board and then at the double-pole switch lighting circuit. The inverter will start automatically.
How Does an Inverter Work?
The inverter converts direct current from sources such as batteries and rectifiers into alternating voltage. Batteries store energy in direct currents, but our home appliances require alternating currents to function properly. Therefore, the inverter plays a crucial role in ensuring the energy stored in the batteries can be used to power our household appliances.
What Size Inverter Do I Need?
If you're installing an inverter to a distribution board, you should aim for one with 6000 watts (6kW) to power your household appliances.
However, if you're using a portable system to power electronics like your TV, PC, or router, you can get a system with 1500 watts of power.
Inverter Price: How Much Should You Expect to Pay to Purchase and Install an Inverter?
An inverter system that will power your entire home should cost about R27,000 for the system (excluding battery backups). A portable system should cost about R7,000. Of course, these prices are only a guide as they fluctuate depending on brand and specifications.
Author: Coastal Property Group
