Back ups during power cut help please?

Anne_Marie_2

colin79666 wrote: »

If the UPS hasn't been used for years then be sure to test it. The batteries in them tend to last 3-4 years. You can get replacement batteries but it might be worth considering a new UPS if the one you have is old, the battery is a dud and you want different features.

Thank you, didn't know that, I'll test it out and see how it goes. It's certainly not been in use for around 4 years, if not longer.

agrinnall wrote: »

I gave serious consideration to buying a generator after it took 2 days to restore power following a winter storm, you can get one reasonably cheaply in the UK but if you are in Cyprus as your profile suggests then I don't know whether the same is true. In the end I didn't do it, and having moved from rural Scotland I don't think I need one now, but let's see what the winter brings.

Thought about a generator on and off, but haven't really thought it was worth the expense here (definitely more expensive than the UK, so I have been told). In general the power cuts are a few hours here and there, but at times, they can go on for 6-8 hours, not days (she says with fingers crossed). It's not a problem during daylight, although obviously an inconvenience. We also have problems with fluctuating voltage, sometimes the power is on, but there isn't enough power for lighting, let alone anything else.
Will see what this winter brings and think about it.

Bedsit_Bob wrote: »

I have a Hudl 2, as well as a PC.

I would use the Hudl in a power cut, and would keep it charged with this.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00YOBGL9K?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00[/CENTER]

Having two USB sockets (a 1.0A and a 2.1A), it'll charge my Hudl, and my MiFi modem, at the same time. :cool:

Now that's a good idea, thank you. Will look into it.
Wish I had known when I was in the UK a few months ago.

bsod wrote: »

a wind-up radio/led torch/usb charger would open up your possibilities. macbook claims many (9-12) hours of battery life. ups seems overkill as it needs to be constantly charged and won't last that long if you plug anything meaty in, but it depends on how frequently it happens.

A few hours off grid is good for the mind, and if you're old enough, comes with a bit of nostalgia. You could download a few podcasts in advance if the radio doesn't appeal.

I don't get 9-12 hours of battery life, but suppose it's all down to what you are using the laptop for. During a power cut, I'd be watching a movie/tv programme or listening to music.

I'm going to look into the wind up radio thingy, that sounds quite good.

I'm well old enough to remember the power cuts of the 70's. Our house was all electric and it was a task for my Mum and Dad with all of us kids then. You are right, quite cathartic thinking about it. We kids had a ball playing in the dark, it was quite an adventure! I remember Dad had a car battery with a lightbulb attached. Mum had food in flasks. Must have been a nightmare for her as there were 6 of us to feed.
I shall have to put these memories into a box and bring them out for the next power cut. :rotfl:

tronator

colin79666 wrote: »

If the UPS hasn't been used for years then be sure to test it. The batteries in them tend to last 3-4 years. You can get replacement batteries but it might be worth considering a new UPS if the one you have is old, the battery is a dud and you want different features.

In most cases replacing the battery costs you a fraction of a new UPS. And what different "features" other than providing power during a cut are you talking about?

Anne_Marie_2

Thank you Tronator, I wouldn't have had a clue about that. As it is, the UPS is working fine, but at least I know now that I can replace the battery which costs around £40. Much cheaper than buying a new equivalent UPS.