Load-shedding is not only a huge inconvenience that we’ve had to learn to live with, it is also a costly plague, as household appliances and electronics often cannot cope with the unstable power supply.
Many of us have experienced the frustration of waiting for load-shedding to end, so that we can finally get back to watching our favourite series, only to turn the TV on once the power is back and…nothing.
The common cause is a power surge – the rush of electricity when it is restored after load-shedding, which exceeds the typical voltage that is supplied to households. The result: Potential irreparable damage to your electronics and appliances
Luckily, there are certain steps you can take to protect your household items from power surges, saving you thousands of rands and allowing you to continue your Netflix binge when the lights go on. Try these five tips:
- Unplug your TV when you’re not watching it (even if the power is on). This will help conserve energy and reduce the risk of power surges.
- You also want to unplug your TV from the wall just before load-shedding begins. This will help to ensure that your TV won’t be subjected to any sudden and unexpected surges when the power returns.
- Make sure your TV is plugged into a surge protector. Surge protectors are designed to protect against any sudden spikes in voltage, which can cause significant damage to the TV. It is also important to check that your surge protector is equipped with a built-in battery backup, this can provide an extra layer of protection in the event of a power outage.
- If you can, invest in an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS), invertor or generator to provide your TV with backup power.
- Keep your TV away from direct sunlight, heat sources, water, and any moisture. This will help prevent overheating and any potential damage from water or humidity.
For more tips and tricks to keep your electronics and appliances safe when the power goes out, visit SKYWORTH.
