You need an AVR
No one wants to spend extra money on a "proper solution" for voltage fluctuations, but the reality is that you should still consider an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR). While it won’t keep your lights on during power outages (that's the job of a UPS), it can provide important protection for your sensitive electronics.
But don’t just grab the cheapest AVR you can find — that could end up causing more problems than it solves. Not all AVRs are made the same, and many manufacturers don’t fully explain how well their devices will protect you during voltage fluctuations or power surges.
What Is a Voltage Fluctuation?
Voltage fluctuations occur when the normal voltage in your mains supply rises or falls unexpectedly. In countries with stable power grids, voltage fluctuations may be rare, but in places like South Africa, they can happen frequently, especially when power is turned on or off during power outages or grid switching. Even if the power goes out and comes back on quickly, devices like computers, decoders, routers, and televisions can still be plugged in, leaving them vulnerable to damage from these fluctuations.
While a single fluctuation might not instantly destroy your electronics, repeated fluctuations over time can cause gradual damage to sensitive components.
How Does an Automatic Voltage Regulator Help?
An AVR helps by maintaining a consistent voltage level, protecting your equipment from the harmful effects of sudden rises or drops in voltage. But be cautious — not all AVRs provide the same level of protection. Some may offer minimal protection, and the cheapest models often don’t deliver the reliability you need.
To make sure you’re getting a reliable AVR, here are the key things to look for:
1. Power Rating (VA)
The power rating (measured in VA – Volt-Amperes) indicates how much load the AVR can handle. For computers and other sensitive electronics, choose an AVR with a rating that exceeds the total wattage of the devices you plan to protect. The higher the VA rating, the more equipment the AVR can safely support.
2. Voltage Range
Voltage range refers to the level at which the AVR kicks in to regulate voltage. A good AVR should be able to handle a wide range of input voltages and ensure a stable output voltage. Ideally, look for an AVR that can correct voltage fluctuations within a range of 180V to 270V, which is common for regions with unstable power supply.
3. Response Time
Response time refers to how quickly the AVR can correct voltage fluctuations. A fast response time helps minimize the time your equipment is exposed to harmful voltage levels. Look for an AVR with a response time of less than 20 milliseconds for optimal protection.
4. Safety Features
Look for AVRs with built-in safety features such as overload protection, short circuit protection, and surge protection. These features help ensure that your equipment remains safe even if the AVR itself faces an issue. Additionally, some AVRs offer a "cut-off" function that automatically disconnects the power when the voltage is outside a safe range.
Watch Out for Misleading Labels
In South Africa, many AVRs are marketed with vague or misleading labels, focusing on things like "heavy-duty design" or "automatic switching" rather than the important technical details. Retailers may also highlight features like colour options or aesthetic design, leaving out crucial performance information. Always check the technical specifications to understand what the AVR can really do.
