DC to AC Power Inverter - The Solution to Load Shedding and Power Outages - Cape Town

Using an Inverter for Emergency Home Back-up Power or for Outdoors

What is a power inverter?

A power inverter converts DC (direct current) power from a battery (like a 12v car battery) to conventional AC (alternating current) power, to be used to operate all kinds of household appliances that are normally run on normal Eskom power.

The successful application, however, depends in the first place on the type of inverter, of which there are two types: pure sine wave (PSW) and modified sine wave (MSW) inverters.

What is the difference between a MSW and PSW inverter?

Both types provide power to AC appliances, but PSW power is high quality (or better) than the normal power supply that you are used to. MSW power is a simpler form of power and is adequate for simple electronic devices but can be harmful to more complex devices, especially those that use a motor. Appliances like refrigerators, microwaves and compressors won't run as efficiently on a MSW as they would on PSW power. In some cases, running an AC device on MSW power may lead to a build-up of excess heat that could damage the device.

MSW inverters are relatively cheaper than PSW inverters and if you only need back-up power for devices like light bulbs (including LED), laptop and cell phone chargers and even Wi-Fi routers and most TV sets for emergency power back-up, then a MSW inverter may be sufficient

So, it's affordability vs. safety. Although more expensive, the PSW is by far the better option.

Limitations

The number of devices that can be powered by an inverter is limited by the total output capacity of the specific inverter. For example, if you use a 500 W continuous power inverter, the total wattage usage of the devices that are powered by the inverter should not exceed 80% of that of the inverter, in other words 400 W. See the application sheet.

Another limitation is the battery itself. The higher the power usage the shorter the battery will last before it needs to be recharged. This can be done by letting your car idle or by using a second back-up battery.

Also to be used as part of a solar panel system,

What do I need?

An inverter and electric lead is all you need, but to make life easier I suggest the following in addition to an inverter:

A separate v12 battery and electric 12v recharger so you can recharge your battery once the power is back on. Then a UPS (uninterrupted power supply) which allows a device to keep running when the grid power is lost, and it also protects your devices against power surges.
An absolute unique 3 in 1 product with a UPS, 12v battery charger and 1000 W or 2000 W Pure Sine Wave inverter is now available, and for far less than what you would pay for similar inverters (without a battery charger and UPS). A new and very powerful 5000 W PSW inverter has just been introduced to the market and now available.
See my other ads for more detailed information.

You are welcome to contact me to discuss your power needs.

Retailers/re-sellers are also welcome to contact me.