Frequently Asked Questions

Start with daily energy (kWh). Pick an inverter for peak power (kW) then size battery for hours of backup. Typical SA homes use 5–8 kW inverters, 5–10 kWh batteries and 6–10 panels for essentials. Moving the geyser to LPG or heat pump slashes PV/battery needs.

kW = power (instant). kWh = energy (over time). A 5 kW inverter can supply up to 5 kW at once; a 10 kWh battery can deliver ~1 kW for ~10 hours (ignoring losses).

Yes. DB work and permanent wiring require a qualified electrician to issue a CoC. It protects insurance claims and resale—always use vetted installers and keep documentation.

With a hybrid inverter and batteries you run essentials during outages and recharge from PV by day. Oversizing PV improves winter performance; prioritise critical circuits.

Depends on the load. ~600 W of essentials (Wi-Fi, lights, TV, fridge cycling) yields ~7–8 hours from 5 kWh usable. Avoid kettles/ovens/geysers or shift to gas.

LiFePO₄ costs more upfront but lasts 3–5× longer, allows deeper discharge, charges faster and needs little maintenance—usually cheaper over the full life.

Good for renters and quick backup. Quality units (e.g., EcoFlow) include BMS, short-circuit protection and UPS-like transfer. Ventilate during high-rate charging.

Begin with smart plugs/lights (SONOFF + Matter) and a hub or Home Assistant. Automate high-impact routines like sunset lighting and load-shedding scenes.

Yes—keep the router and hub on a small UPS/portable station. Prefer local/LAN control so automations keep working even if the internet drops.

Pick ONVIF/RTSP models. Many TP-Link Tapo and EZVIZ units work well. Record to an NVR or HA add-on for reliability and motion events.

Plugs are no-wiring and great for lamps/appliances. In-wall switches look cleaner and keep normal switch action. Use neutral-required models for LED reliability.

Moving hot water off electricity is the biggest win. LPG instant heaters or a solar-thermal + LPG hybrid cut PV/battery size and keep showers hot during outages.

Target heating/compressors first: geyser, oven, heaters, pool pump, old fridges. Use timers, inverter-friendly appliances and LED lighting.

Depends on cameras, resolution, bitrate and retention days. As a rule, 4 × 4MP cams at 8 Mbps each ≈ ~345 GB/week on continuous recording; VBR + motion saves space.

Install outdoors or with approved flue, keep cylinders upright in ventilated cages, follow SANS 10087 clearances, and use SAQCC-registered installers with CoC.