With load-shedding wreaking havoc on home security systems, residents are left vulnerable, when alarm and security gate batteries die.
Local security expert and Northcliff resident Clive Maher said people spend a lot of money on their security systems to protect themselves. However, without further investment, load-shedding undermines those efforts.
“Most systems have a small 12v battery to bridge the gap for short electricity interruptions. These batteries are not designed to carry equipment through frequent hours-long load-shedding. It does not matter if it is an older lead acid battery or a newer gel one. Hardware should last 12–24 months. Now it needs to be replaced after five or six months. This is an ongoing cost and source of frustration.”
He advised residents to consider investing in slightly larger solutions than technically necessary.
“If not, the backup system will be running at maximum capacity, which will reduce its longevity.”
Maher suggested four options for keeping security systems online during outages:
1) The cheapest is an immediate quick fix. “Instead of buying one 12v battery, buy two, three, or even four. These can be connected via a parallel setup, which means, the voltage of the battery stays the same, but the capacity (time the battery will last) is doubled.”
2) The second is to buy a UPS or inverter power system. A 2kva or 5kva system should be sufficient and costs between R5 000– R15 000, depending on your needs and the size of the battery required. “The cost of the battery depends on the hours of back-up time needed.”
3) Generators are an option, but Maher said, he noticed fuel costs, noise, and smell of fumes often frustrated some communities. He would not recommend generators, unless there was no alternative.
4) The last and most expensive option was solar. “It is the best all-around, long-term solution for those who can afford it. It will last for years and is also a good investment.”
Related Article:
