FAQ

Got Questions? We've Got Answers.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about our products and services. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out — we’re happy to help at helpdesk@alphapower.co.za.

Diesel Refuelling

Do you offer emergency diesel refuelling services for generators in South Africa?

Yes, Alpha Power provides nationwide 24-hour diesel refueling services for generators to ensure they are always ready when you need them.

How do I know when my generator is low on diesel?

Remote monitoring services can send real-time alerts, or you can manually check the fuel gauge on your generator.

Water Servicing

How do I maintain my water filtration and storage system?

Regular checks of the filtration system and water storage tanks ensure that the system is working optimally and safely.

How often should I clean my water tanks?

Water tanks should be cleaned at least once a year, or more frequently if the water quality is poor or if there are visible contaminants.

Solar Servicing & Maintenance

How often should I service my solar panels in South Africa?

Solar systems should be serviced at least once a year. Regular checks ensure the panels are clean, efficient, and free from any performance issues.

What maintenance is required for solar inverters?

Solar inverters should be inspected and cleaned regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly. They may also require firmware updates for optimal performance.

Power Analysis

What is power analysis and why is it important for my business?

Power analysis identifies inefficiencies and weaknesses in your electrical system, helping to optimize performance and prevent costly disruptions.

How does thermal imaging help with power analysis?

Thermal imaging detects overheating components in electrical systems, preventing failures and ensuring efficient power distribution.

Generator & UPS Hire

Can I hire a generator or UPS for short-term use in South Africa?

Yes, Alpha Power offers flexible short-term and long-term hire options for both generators and UPS systems to ensure your operations remain uninterrupted during power outages.

How do I choose the right generator or UPS to hire for my business?

Our technical team can assess your power needs and recommend the ideal system based on your load requirements and operational conditions.

Maintenance & Technical Backup

How often should my UPS and generator be serviced in South Africa?

UPS systems should be serviced at least once a year, while generators should be serviced annually or after every 1500 hours of use to ensure optimal performance during load shedding.

What should I do if my generator or UPS system fails during load shedding?

Contact Alpha Power’s 24-hour helpline for immediate technical support and advice. Our team can help troubleshoot and arrange repairs.

Service Level Agreements (SLAs)

What is included in an SLA for generator maintenance?

SLAs typically include regular inspections, performance testing, maintenance, and emergency repair services, ensuring your generator is always operational.

Why should my business consider an SLA for UPS systems?

An SLA ensures your UPS system is regularly maintained, preventing unexpected failures and ensuring continuity of critical operations during power outages.

Remote Monitoring

What are the benefits of remote monitoring for my UPS or generator in South Africa?

Remote monitoring ensures your system is always functioning, providing alerts for issues like low fuel or overheating, allowing for timely maintenance and reducing the risk of costly failures.

How does remote monitoring work for solar systems?

Remote monitoring allows you to track the performance of your solar panels in real-time, ensuring efficient energy production and early detection of potential faults.

WATER

How do I improve water pressure in my home or business in South Africa?

Alpha Power’s water systems include a pump that will improve your water pressure, particularly in areas with inconsistent municipal supply.

How can I ensure clean, safe drinking water in South Africa?

Alpha Power’s water systems use advanced filtration to remove chlorine, sediment, and bacteria, ensuring exceptional quality for your drinking water.

BATTERIES

What type of battery is best for solar power systems in South Africa?

Lithium-ion batteries are highly recommended for their longer lifespan and efficiency, especially in regions with frequent load shedding.

How often should I replace my solar battery?

Solar batteries typically last between 5-15 years with 5 / 10 year warranties on most tier one brands. Regular monitoring and maintenance can help extend their lifespan.

SOLAR POWER

Is solar power worth the investment in South Africa?

Yes, with abundant sunshine and rising electricity costs, solar power can offer significant savings in the long term, especially with South Africa’s high energy tariffs and frequent power outages.

Can I go completely off-grid with solar power in South Africa?

Yes, it is possible to go off-grid with solar power, but the system must be designed with sufficient energy storage (batteries) and backup systems to meet your needs.

What is the cost of installing a solar power system in South Africa?

The cost can vary depending on the system size, quality of components, and installation requirements. However, government rebates and incentives may help lower the upfront costs.

What is the lifespan of solar panels in South Africa?

Solar panels typically last between 25 to 30 years, with hardware warranties of up to 15 years, ensuring long-term energy savings.

How much maintenance does a solar system require in South Africa?

Solar systems require minimal maintenance, primarily cleaning the panels and occasional inspections to ensure everything is working correctly.

How can I track my solar system’s performance in real-time?

With monitoring systems, you can track the energy production of your solar system through mobile apps or online platforms, receiving alerts in case of performance drops or faults.

What happens if I move house?

You are able to transfer your rental agreement to your new property. You will be liable to the installer for the cost associated with the removal and re-installation process. Your rental terms will remain the same. You may request to add the outstanding rentals to the selling price of the property and the new owner will simply inherit the solution with the property; or The buyer of the property may, subject to our credit team’s assessment, request to take over the agreement. If this is approved, then your agreement will simultaneously cancel on our signature of the agreement in the property buyer’s name.

Inverters

How long does an inverter last in South Africa's harsh climate?

With regular maintenance, an inverter can last 10 to 15 years. Most tier one brands offer 5 / 10 year warranties. However, extreme temperatures or poor air circulation can affect its lifespan.

Do I need a licensed professional to install my inverter?

Yes, it’s recommended to have a licensed professional install your inverter to comply with electrical regulations and ensure safety.

GENERATORS

What size generator do I need for my business or home?

The required size depends on your total power consumption. A qualified technician can help you assess your needs based on the appliances or machinery you intend to power.

How often should I service my generator in South Africa?

Generators should be serviced at least once a year or after 1000-1500 hours of operation, whichever comes first, to ensure they are prepared for load shedding or emergency use.

UPS (UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLY)

How long does a UPS last in South Africa's load-shedding environment?

A UPS can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years, but it may need more frequent maintenance and battery replacements due to the strain from regular power cuts.

How much capacity do I need for my UPS system?

The capacity of your UPS should match the power requirement of the equipment you intend to back up. In South Africa, businesses should consider future load shedding schedules and plan for additional capacity to avoid downtime.