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Lets Explain: Solar, Generators, Inverters

People are incredibly confused in terms of the alternative energy systems they could use at their homes during power outages in South Africa, this as a result of the State Owned Entity known as Eskom announcing that there would be rolling blackouts, also known as load shedding in South Africa for at least the next two to three years.


The effect is that people are exploring options such as solar energy, batteries, inverters, generators.


Here The Go-To Guy we looked at the most basics of alternative energy solutions for homes and explain each option clearly and in a manner that the average person on the street will understand.

What are the alternative energy solutions for homes during power outages in South Africa?

  1. Solar Energy: This involves installing solar panels on the roof of your home to convert sunlight into electricity. The electricity generated can be used to power your home during the day and stored in batteries for use during power outages.

  2. Batteries: This is a backup power solution that stores energy generated from solar panels or from the grid when it's available, for use during power outages.

  3. Inverters: An inverter converts DC (direct current) electricity generated by solar panels or batteries into AC (alternating current) electricity, which is the type of electricity that is used in most homes.

  4. Generators: A generator is a backup power source that runs on fuel, such as petrol, diesel or gas, to generate electricity during power outages. It is a portable solution but requires refuelling and maintenance.

In summary, these alternative energy solutions can help provide power during power outages, with solar energy being a long-term, sustainable option and batteries, inverters, and generators being shorter-term solutions. What are the key components if solar is explored? The key components of a solar energy system for a home include:

  1. Solar Panels: These are the main component that converts sunlight into electricity.

  2. Inverter: As mentioned earlier, this converts DC electricity generated by the solar panels into AC electricity that can be used in the home.

  3. Batteries: Optional but recommended for storing excess electricity generated by the solar panels for use during power outages.

  4. Charge Controller: This regulates the flow of electricity from the solar panels to the batteries to ensure that they are not overcharged.

  5. Mounting System: This is used to securely mount the solar panels on the roof or ground.

  6. Wiring: This connects the various components of the system together.

These are the main components of a basic solar energy system for a home. Additional components may be required depending on the specific needs and requirements of the homeowner. How many solar panels will I require? The number of solar panels required for a home will depend on several factors, including:

  1. Energy consumption: How much electricity do you use on a daily basis? This will determine the size of the solar panel system you will need.

  2. Roof size and orientation: The amount of available space on the roof and its orientation will affect the number of solar panels that can be installed.

  3. Climate: The amount of sunlight in your area will impact the size of the system you need.

As a rough estimate, a typical residential solar panel system can range from 4 to 16 panels, each producing around 300 to 400 watts of power. So, for a typical home using 8,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year, you may need a system with a capacity of 2 to 4 kilowatts (kW).

It's recommended to consult a solar energy professional to determine the exact number of panels needed for your specific home and energy usage. They will perform a site assessment and calculate the precise energy requirements to recommend the right system size for you. Could I use batteries that are charged during power available periods and then when power is cut then I use the batteries to power my home? Yes, you can use batteries charged during periods when power is available to provide backup power during power outages. This is known as a battery backup system. The battery stores excess energy generated from your solar panels or from the grid when it's available, for use during power outages. When the grid power goes out, the battery will automatically switch to provide power to your home, and the inverter will convert the stored DC electricity into AC electricity for use in your home.

This solution provides a reliable source of backup power during power outages, but it's important to note that battery technology can be expensive, and the batteries will need to be replaced over time. It's also essential to choose the right size battery to match your energy consumption, so that the battery can provide enough power to meet your needs during an outage. So what can you tell me about batteries and what size batteries would I require to power an ordinary home with about 8 rooms with lights of about 60 watt, an average television set, my wifi router? To determine the size of the battery required to power an ordinary home with 8 rooms and typical appliances like lights, a TV, and a Wi-Fi router, you need to consider the following:

  1. Energy consumption: You need to know the total daily energy consumption of all the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage.

  2. Battery capacity: Batteries are rated in kilowatt hours (kWh), and you will need to choose a battery with enough capacity to meet your daily energy needs during an outage.

  3. Duration of the power outage: You'll also need to consider how long the power outages are expected to last, as this will affect the size of the battery you will need.

As a rough estimate, a typical 60W light bulb uses approximately 0.06 kWh per hour, and a typical TV uses around 0.3 kWh per day. For a home with 8 rooms, you may have 8 x 60W lights, which will consume approximately 0.48 kWh per day. Adding the TV, Wi-Fi router, and other small appliances, the total daily energy consumption may be around 1.5 kWh.

If power outages are expected to last for 4 hours a day, then you may need a battery with a capacity of around 6 kWh to provide enough power to last during an outage. However, this is just an estimate, and it's recommended to consult a battery specialist to determine the exact size of battery you will need, taking into consideration all the factors mentioned earlier. Why do I need an inverter?, and taking the above power consumption into consideration how big should my inverter be, also explain to me what I should take into consideration when buying an inverter An inverter is an essential component in a battery backup system, as it converts the stored DC electricity from the battery into AC electricity that can be used in your home.

To determine the size of the inverter you need, you'll need to consider the following:

  1. Energy consumption: You need to know the total energy consumption of all the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage.

  2. Peak load: You need to consider the highest amount of power that will be needed at any one time, known as the peak load. For example, if you have an air conditioner that requires 2kW of power, then you'll need an inverter that can handle that peak load.

  3. Efficiency: It's important to choose an inverter with a high efficiency rating to ensure that you get the most out of your battery.

When choosing an inverter, you should also consider the following factors:

  1. Type: There are two main types of inverters, standalone and grid-tied. Standalone inverters are used for backup power during power outages, while grid-tied inverters are used to feed excess energy back into the grid.

  2. Output power: The output power of the inverter should be equal to or higher than your total energy consumption during an outage.

  3. Battery compatibility: Ensure the inverter is compatible with your battery technology.

  4. Warranty: Look for an inverter with a good warranty to provide peace of mind.

  5. Brand reputation: Consider the brand reputation of the inverter and look for reviews and ratings from other users to help you make an informed decision.

It's recommended to consult an inverter specialist to determine the exact size and type of inverter you need, taking into consideration all the factors mentioned above. Okay now lets look at generators, what generator requirements would i need taking the above home size and consumption into consideration? To determine the generator requirements for a home with 8 rooms and a total energy consumption of around 1.5 kWh per day, you need to consider the following:

  1. Energy consumption: You need to know the total energy consumption of all the appliances and devices you want to power during an outage.

  2. Peak load: You need to consider the highest amount of power that will be needed at any one time, known as the peak load.

  3. Fuel type: There are two main types of generators, gasoline and diesel. Gasoline generators are typically less expensive, but diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and have a longer lifespan.

  4. Noise level: Consider the noise level of the generator, especially if it will be used near residential areas.

  5. Portability: Consider the portability of the generator, as you may need to move it in case of an emergency.

As a rough estimate, a typical 7kW generator can provide enough power to run a home with 8 rooms and a total energy consumption of around 1.5 kWh per day. However, this is just an estimate, and it's recommended to consult a generator specialist to determine the exact size and type of generator you need, taking into consideration all the factors mentioned above. How much power would an average fridge add to the above calculation of power consumption? The power consumption of a typical fridge depends on its size, age, and efficiency. On average, a typical fridge consumes between 100-400 watts per hour.

Let's assume you have a modern, energy-efficient fridge that consumes 200 watts per hour. If the fridge runs for 8 hours per day, it will consume 1600 watt-hours, or 1.6 kilowatt-hours, per day. So, if you add a 200 watt fridge to the calculation of power consumption for a home with 8 rooms and an estimated energy consumption of 1.5 kWh per day, the total energy consumption would increase to 3.1 kWh per day. What about maintenance of a solar system, what are the factors to consider ? When it comes to maintaining a solar energy system, the following factors should be considered:

  1. Panel cleaning: Solar panels should be kept clean to ensure maximum energy production. Dirt, dust, and bird droppings can reduce the efficiency of the panels, so regular cleaning is important.

  2. Battery maintenance: The batteries in a solar energy system should be checked regularly for proper charging and discharging. Regular cleaning of battery terminals is also important to prevent corrosion.

  3. Inverter maintenance: The inverter in a solar energy system converts DC power from the panels into AC power that can be used by household appliances. Regular monitoring of the inverter is important to ensure it is functioning properly.

  4. System monitoring: Regular monitoring of the entire solar energy system can help identify potential problems early, so they can be addressed before they cause major damage.

  5. Maintenance contracts: Consider signing a maintenance contract with a solar energy company to ensure regular check-ups and maintenance of the system.

  6. Warranty: Ensure the system components have a good warranty in case of any defects or malfunctions.

  7. Theft: Unfortunately it is a reality that solar panels are sought after, therefore during your installation you would have to consider safeguarding the panels against theft

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your solar energy system continues to operate efficiently and effectively for many years. When it comes to maintaining a generator system, what are the factors to be considered When it comes to maintaining a generator system, the following factors should be considered:

  1. Fuel: Regularly check the fuel level and keep the generator topped up. Store fuel in a safe, dry place, and handle it carefully to prevent spills or leaks.

  2. Engine oil: Regularly check the oil level and change it as recommended by the manufacturer.

  3. Air filter: Clean or replace the air filter as recommended by the manufacturer to prevent dust and dirt from clogging the engine.

  4. Spark plug: Check the spark plug periodically and replace it if necessary.

  5. Exhaust system: Check the exhaust system for leaks and cracks and repair if necessary.

  6. Cooling system: Check the cooling system for leaks and cracks, and make sure the generator is operating in a well-ventilated area.

  7. Battery: Check the battery regularly, and if necessary, have it charged or replaced.

  8. Electrical connections: Check the electrical connections regularly for loose wires and frayed insulation, and tighten or replace as necessary.

  9. Maintenance contracts: Consider signing a maintenance contract with a generator company to ensure regular check-ups and maintenance of the system.

  10. Warranty: Ensure the system components have a good warranty in case of any defects or malfunctions.

By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your generator system continues to operate efficiently and effectively, and be ready when you need it. How often should a solar system be serviced? A solar energy system typically requires minimal maintenance, but it is still important to have it checked and serviced periodically to ensure optimal performance. The frequency of service required depends on the size and complexity of the system, as well as environmental factors such as weather and air quality. As a general guideline, most solar energy systems should be serviced at least once a year. This includes checking the panels for damage, cleaning the panels if necessary, checking the battery, checking the inverter, and checking the electrical connections.

If your system is located in a particularly harsh environment or if it has been in operation for several years, more frequent servicing may be necessary. A solar energy professional can assess your system and provide recommendations for the frequency of service that is appropriate for your situation. How often should a generator system be serviced? The frequency of service required for a generator system depends on various factors such as usage, storage conditions, and the type of generator. As a general guideline, the following are recommended maintenance intervals:

  1. Monthly: Check oil level, fuel level, and battery level.

  2. Every 50 hours of use: Change the oil and oil filter.

  3. Every 100 hours of use: Clean the air filter and check the spark plug.

  4. Every 250 hours of use: Service the carburettor, fuel system, and generator head.

  5. Annually: Perform a complete service of the generator, including checking the starter, alternator, cooling system, exhaust system, and all electrical connections.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific model of generator you have, as these intervals may vary depending on the make and model. Having a professional perform regular maintenance will help extend the life of your generator and ensure that it operates safely and reliably when you need it. How often should my battery and inverter system be serviced? The frequency of service required for a battery and inverter system depends on various factors such as usage, storage conditions, and the type of battery and inverter. As a general guideline, the following are recommended maintenance intervals:

  1. Monthly: Check the battery voltage and water level (if required), and check the inverter for any error messages or alarms.

  2. Annually: Clean the battery terminals and check the electrolyte level. Have a professional perform a load test on the battery and check the charging system.

  3. Every 3 to 5 years: Replace the battery, as its capacity and performance will degrade over time.

  4. Every 5 years: Have a professional perform a complete service of the inverter, including checking the fans, cooling system, and all electrical connections.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific battery and inverter you have, as these intervals may vary depending on the make and model. Having a professional perform regular maintenance will help extend the life of your battery and inverter system and ensure that it operates safely and reliably when you need it. What about using a UPS for my home? A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is a device that provides backup power to your electrical devices in case of a power outage. It works by storing energy in batteries and automatically switching to battery power when the main power source is disrupted.

Using a UPS can be an effective solution for providing backup power to your home, especially if you need to keep critical devices such as a computer, internet modem, or security system running during a power outage. A UPS can provide a few minutes of backup power, allowing you to safely shut down your devices and avoid data loss or corruption.

When selecting a UPS for your home, it is important to consider the following factors:

  1. Capacity: The UPS capacity is measured in VA (Volt-Amps) or Watts. You should select a UPS with a capacity that meets your needs, taking into account the power consumption of the devices you want to protect.

  2. Battery runtime: The battery runtime is the amount of time that the UPS can provide backup power on a single battery charge. You should select a UPS with a battery runtime that meets your needs, taking into account the length of time you expect the power outage to last.

  3. Outlets: The number of outlets on the UPS determines how many devices you can connect to it. Make sure the UPS you select has enough outlets to meet your needs.

  4. Price: UPS devices range in price depending on their capacity, battery runtime, and features. You should select a UPS that offers a good balance between price and performance.

It is recommended to have a professional install your UPS system to ensure that it is installed safely and properly. How do I calculate the size UPS I require? To calculate the size of the UPS you require, you need to determine the total power consumption (in Watts) of the devices you want to connect to it. Here's a simple way to do it:

  1. Identify the devices: List all the devices that you want to connect to the UPS (e.g., computer, modem, router, TV, etc.).

  2. Find the power consumption: Look for the power consumption specifications for each device. These are usually listed on the product label or in the user manual. If the specifications are listed in Amps, you can convert it to Watts using the formula: Watts = Volts x Amps. (Note: most devices operate on 120V AC in the US, while others may operate on 240V AC).

  3. Add up the power consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the devices to get the total power consumption.

  4. Consider the surge protection: Consider the surge protection requirements of your devices and add an additional 50-100% to the total power consumption to accommodate for power surges and spikes.

  5. Choose the UPS: Choose a UPS with a capacity that meets or exceeds the total power consumption you calculated, including the surge protection. The capacity is usually listed in VA (Volt-Amps) or Watts.

For example, if you have a computer that uses 150 Watts, a modem that uses 25 Watts, and a router that uses 10 Watts, the total power consumption would be 150 + 25 + 10 = 185 Watts. Adding an additional 50% for surge protection, the required UPS capacity would be 185 x 1.5 = 277.5 Watts.

It is always a good idea to choose a UPS with a slightly higher capacity than your actual power consumption to ensure that it can handle any additional devices you might add in the future. How do I calculate the size of solar system I require? To calculate the size of the solar system you require, you need to determine your daily power consumption and the average daily solar insolation in your area. Here's a simple way to do it:

  1. Determine your daily power consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the devices you want to run on solar power. If the specifications are listed in Amps, you can convert it to Watts using the formula: Watts = Volts x Amps.

  2. Calculate average daily solar insolation: Determine the average daily solar insolation in your area. This is a measure of the amount of solar energy that falls on a square meter of the earth's surface. You can find this information online or consult a local solar contractor.

  3. Determine the required solar panel capacity: Multiply your daily power consumption by the number of days you want to run your devices on solar power, and divide by the average daily solar insolation. This gives you the required solar panel capacity in Watts.

For example, if your daily power consumption is 500 Watts, you want to run your devices on solar power for 3 days, and the average daily solar insolation in your area is 5 hours, the required solar panel capacity would be 500 x 3 / (5 x 1 hour/day) = 300 Watts.

  1. Choose the right solar panels: Based on the required solar panel capacity, choose the right solar panels. Consider the size, efficiency, and warranty of the panels.

  2. Sizing the rest of the system: In addition to solar panels, you will also need a solar inverter, charge controller, batteries (if you want to store energy), and wiring to complete your solar system. The size of these components will depend on the size of your solar panels, your daily power consumption, and your energy storage needs.

It's a good idea to consult with a local solar contractor who can help you size your solar system correctly and provide you with a customised solution. How do I calculate the size of generator I will require? To calculate the size of generator you will require, follow these steps:

  1. Determine your power consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the devices you want to run on the generator. If the specifications are listed in Amps, you can convert it to Watts using the formula: Watts = Volts x Amps.

  2. Add a safety factor: Generators are not 100% efficient, so it's best to add a safety factor of 20-30% to your power consumption to account for losses and inefficiencies.

  3. Determine the starting and running power requirements: Some devices, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, require more power to start up than to run. To ensure that your generator can handle the load, you need to determine both the starting and running power requirements.

  4. Choose the right generator: Based on the total power consumption (including the safety factor), choose a generator that meets your power requirements. Consider the size, efficiency, and fuel type of the generator.

  5. Consider fuel storage: If you plan to use a generator for an extended period of time, you need to consider the fuel storage requirements. Calculate the fuel consumption rate of your generator and plan accordingly.

It's a good idea to consult with a local generator supplier who can help you size your generator correctly and provide you with a customised solution. How do I calculate the size of batteries I will require? To calculate the size of batteries you will require, follow these steps:

  1. Determine your daily power consumption: Add up the power consumption of all the devices you want to run on battery power. Calculate your daily power consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh).

  2. Choose your battery capacity: Based on your daily power consumption, choose a battery capacity that can provide enough power to run your devices for the desired period of time.

  3. Determine your depth of discharge (DoD): This is the percentage of the battery's capacity that you plan to use. The lower the DoD, the longer the battery will last. A common DoD for deep cycle batteries is 50%.

  4. Calculate the battery capacity: Multiply your daily power consumption (kWh) by the number of days you want to run on battery power and divide by the DoD. The result is the minimum battery capacity (Ah) you need.

  5. Choose the right battery: Based on the battery capacity you calculated, choose a battery that meets your power requirements. Consider the type of battery, voltage, and current.

  6. Consider the number of batteries: To increase the system's reliability and battery life, it's best to use multiple batteries in parallel. Consider the total capacity, voltage, and current when choosing the number of batteries.

It's a good idea to consult with a local battery supplier or installer who can help you size your battery correctly and provide you with a customised solution. How do I calculate my KWH as referenced above? To calculate your daily kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption, follow these steps:

  1. Determine your device's power consumption: Check the device's specifications to find its power consumption in watts (W).

  2. Calculate the device's energy consumption: Multiply the device's power consumption (W) by the number of hours it's used per day. The result is the device's daily energy consumption in watt-hours (Wh).

  3. Add up all the devices: Repeat the calculation for all the devices you want to run on battery power and add up the total energy consumption for all devices.

  4. Convert to kilowatt-hours (kWh): Divide the total energy consumption (Wh) by 1000 to convert it to kilowatt-hours (kWh).

For example, if you have four 60W light bulbs that you use for 4 hours a day, your daily energy consumption for the light bulbs would be: 60W * 4 hours = 240 Wh. If you also have a TV that uses 100W for 4 hours a day, your total daily energy consumption would be: 240 Wh + (100W * 4 hours) = 840 Wh or 0.84 kWh. I see many homes plugging generator directly into one of the wall outlets and therefore feeding power back into the home, this without going through the distribution box, is this safe? No, it is not safe to plug a generator directly into a wall outlet. Doing so can create a dangerous situation known as "backfeeding," which occurs when power generated by the generator flows back into the electrical grid and endangers utility workers who may be working on the lines.

To avoid backfeeding and ensure the safety of everyone, a transfer switch should be installed. This switch allows you to safely disconnect your home's electrical system from the utility grid and connect it to the generator. This ensures that power generated by the generator only flows into your home and not back into the grid.

Additionally, it's important to use a generator that's designed for residential use and has the appropriate safety features, such as ground fault protection, circuit breakers, and automatic shutdown in case of low oil level or other issues. What other safety considerations should I consider for generators? When using a generator, it's important to take the following safety considerations into account:

  1. Fuel safety: Store fuel in a safe and well-ventilated area, away from any heat source. Keep the fuel container away from children and pets.

  2. Location: Place the generator in a well-ventilated, dry area, away from windows, doors, and vents. Avoid operating the generator indoors or in enclosed spaces, as this can cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

  3. Electrical safety: Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords to connect your appliances to the generator, and make sure they're grounded. Avoid overloading the generator by connecting too many appliances at once.

  4. Circuit breaker: Make sure the generator has a circuit breaker to protect against power surges and overloads.

  5. Grounding: Ground the generator according to the manufacturer's instructions.

  6. Maintenance: Regularly maintain the generator, following the manufacturer's recommendations, to keep it running smoothly and to avoid potential hazards.

  7. Carbon monoxide: Install CO detectors in your home to alert you if CO levels become dangerous.

By taking these safety precautions, you can minimiSe the risk of injury or damage when using a generator. What effect would adding a geyser to the above calculations have? Adding a geyser to your home's power consumption calculations can have a significant effect, as geysers are typically one of the largest energy consumers in a household. The size of the effect will depend on the capacity of the geyser, how often it's used, and the temperature it's set to.

To estimate the effect on your power consumption, you need to know the capacity of your geyser (usually measured in liters) and the power rating of the heating element. With this information, you can calculate the average power consumption of the geyser and add it to your total.

For example, if your geyser has a capacity of 100 liters and a heating element with a power rating of 2 kW, it will consume an average of 2 kWh per day when it's used to heat the water to the desired temperature. This means that you would need to add an additional 2 kWh to your daily power consumption calculations when determining the size of your alternative energy system.

It's important to remember that this is just an estimate, and your actual power consumption may be different depending on various factors, such as the temperature outside, the insulation of your geyser, and the frequency of use. What can I do to reduce the load required at my home during outages? To reduce the load required at your home during power outages, you can follow these steps:

  1. Energy efficiency: Upgrade your home's lighting to energy-efficient bulbs, which consume less power. Also, consider using energy-efficient appliances and electronic devices, which can significantly reduce your overall power consumption.

  2. Reduce standby power: Many electronic devices and appliances consume power even when they're not in use. Reduce this standby power by turning off devices and unplugging them when not in use.

  3. Use solar-powered devices: Consider using solar-powered lights and other devices, which can reduce your power consumption during outages.

  4. Use a load management system: A load management system can help you manage your power consumption during outages by automatically turning off non-essential devices and appliances.

  5. Limit hot water usage: Hot water can consume a significant amount of power. Reduce your hot water usage by taking short showers, washing clothes in cold water, and limiting the use of the geyser.

By following these steps, you can reduce the load required at your home during power outages, making it easier to manage with alternative energy systems such as batteries, solar panels, and generators.


Where can I get more technical information, costings and assistance?

We have a number of companies on The Go-To Guy that you can speak to, you can find all their contact details, WhatsApp numbers, Facebook pages and other relevant information here at this link: Generator and Solar Suppliers (Look under Generators and Solar and Electricians)


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