When load shedding hits, you have two main options for keeping the lights on: an inverter with batteries, or a generator. They solve the same problem very differently. Here is how to choose.
Inverter with battery backup
An inverter stores grid or solar power in batteries and switches over silently and automatically when the power drops — you barely notice the outage. No fuel, no noise, no fumes, minimal maintenance. The trade-off is a higher upfront cost and a limit on how much you can run. Ideal for everyday load shedding. See inverter installations.
Generator
A generator burns petrol or diesel to produce power on demand, which makes it strong for long outages and heavy loads. The downsides: it is noisy, needs fuel and maintenance, produces fumes, and requires a proper changeover switch installed by an electrician.
Quick comparison
| Inverter + battery | Generator | |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | Silent | Loud |
| Switchover | Automatic, instant | Manual or auto changeover |
| Running cost | Very low (grid/solar) | Ongoing fuel |
| Best for | Daily load shedding | Long outages, heavy loads |
Our recommendation
For most Sandton and Midrand homes, an inverter with battery backup — ideally paired with solar — is the better everyday solution. If you run a business or need to power heavy equipment through long outages, a generator (or both) makes sense. We design the right setup for your loads and budget. Call 082 886 9119.