In South Africa, where frequent power blackouts are common, it is important to consider protecting your devices and appliances from the effects of load shedding. While backup power solutions are available, they can be costly. However, you can take several short-term measures to address the potential harm caused to your electronics by power cuts and surges.
One significant threat to your electronics during load shedding is power surges. These can occur when the power abruptly goes out and comes back on, sending a surge of electricity directly into your devices.
Invest in high-quality surge protectors to mitigate this risk and connect your valuable electronics to these adaptors. Surge protectors act as electronic bodyguards, shielding your equipment from sudden voltage spikes during and after load-shedding hours. They can be purchased for as little as R140.
VOLTAGE STABILISERS
Another concern during load shedding is voltage fluctuation. The voltage can fluctuate before stabilising when the electricity is restored after a blackout. This fluctuation can potentially harm sensitive electronics. Consider installing voltage stabilisers for your more sensitive devices to combat this issue. These stabilisers ensure a smooth and stable flow of electricity, safeguarding your electronics from the adverse effects of power fluctuations. These will set you back a bit more, starting from around R1500.
Among your electronic devices, your computer is especially vulnerable during load shedding. Invest in an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) to protect your computer. This device keeps your computer running during blackouts and shields it from the chaos caused by surges and voltage fluctuations. They start from around R1700.
Televisions are relatively less sensitive than computers but can still be affected by frequent power blackouts. Surge protectors can again come to the rescue here. Connect your TV and any associated equipment to surge protectors to ensure they are shielded from power spikes.
General household appliances are also essential to consider. Unplugging your washing machine, dishwasher and other ‘white goods’ during power outages can protect them from power surges. Fridges can also be unplugged during shorter load-shedding hours to mitigate power-surge damage.
If your budget allows, consider investing in surge protectors for all your gadgets and appliances for comprehensive protection from sudden voltage spikes and fluctuations. Additionally, voltage stabilisers can keep those voltage fluctuations at bay. With these measures in place, you can future-proof your devices and appliances against the uncertainties of load shedding.