Alternative Power systems, specialists in commercial and domestic alternative power.

Alternative Power Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Q. What does an Alternative Power System consist of?
A. Any alternative power system will usually require a battery for storage and a means of generating power. This could be a wind turbine, solar panels, small hydro plant or any combination of these. A charge controller is sometimes needed and an inverter to convert the DC power to power suitable for all your household appliances.

Q. What are the key things to look for when buying an alternative power system?
A. No matter what application, an alternative power system needs to be well designed and the components well integrated. You should feel secure in the knowledge that your system will meet your expectations throughout the year.

Q. What size system will I need?
A. The size of your system will be dictated by the amount of daily power required and the amount of energy available at your site. A professional supplier will assist by providing a detailed analysis. Using power efficiently will reduce the cost of your system.

Q. How much will it cost?
A. The cost of an alternative power system will be directly proportional to the amount of power you require. 

Q. Can alternative power systems be expanded at a later date?
A. Yes. Any well designed system is fully expandable to meet future needs. There may be some minor redundant components but these will be minimal with a well designed system.

Q. Can 230 volt appliances be used?
A. Yes. The system will provide 230 volts so that all normal household appliances can be used. DC power can also be available if you require it.

Q. Who will install my system?
A. The DC part of the system can be installed by a handyman after advice from your supplier. Most of the 230 volt part of the system can be installed by your self but must be inspected by a registered electrician before energising. The requirements of the electricity regulations must be complied with.

Q. How long will my system last?
A. If the system is well designed and you understand the limitations of the equipment the system should last as long as 15 years or longer. You will need to do some minor maintenance to ensure minimum problems.

Q. Can I have an electric fridge? 
A. Yes, however fridges are one of the heaviest consumers of power in the modern home. Purchasing a high efficiency fridge will pay for itself in a very short time.

Q. What household appliances can I not run on alternative power.
A. All household appliances can be run from an alternative power system. 

Q. Will there be any maintenance required?
A. Yes, but only a little. Checking the battery liquid level and condition charging at 3 monthly intervals is recommended. Ensuring the components are not contaminated with dust and dirt will give you a trouble free system.
Q. Why is a regulator required?

A. Unless you are using less than two solar panels a regulator is required to ensure the battery does not get overcharged. Modern regulators are intelligent devices and will ensure maximum life from your battery. 

Q. What size battery will I need?
A. A battery's size is determined by the size of your loads and the number of day's storage you require. If you have a generator it will also affect the size required. Remember, bigger is not always better in the case of batteries.

Q. What type of battery should I use?
A. Car batteries are not suitable for alternative power systems. Only batteries designed to be continuously discharged and recharged will provide good performance and long life.

Q. Are special cable and fuses required?
A. Yes. The 230 volt AC wiring system is standard. The DC wiring will be required to handle large currents. The wiring needs to be designed to ensure the system is safe, will not cause a fire, and will not waste power. Over sizing the wire is very expensive.

Q. How can I calculate my power requirements?
A. A good supplier will provide you with a form to assist you. From the information you put on the form, your supplier will be able to map your load and model various combinations of components. This give you the best system to provide your power requirements.

Q. Are Wind Turbines noisy?
A. In the past some wind turbines have been noisy but continued development and improvement has made modern units better. There will always be some noise in strong winds but it need not be excessive. No more than the wind in the trees or the waves on the shore.