01/09/2026
Difference between the various solar system sizes, as the right system depends mainly on your household’s electricity usage and the appliances you want to run during load shedding.
3kW SOLAR SYSTEM – Essential Backup
Ideal for smaller homes and basic backup requirements.
Can typically run:
• Lights
• TV
• WiFi/router
• Computers/laptops
• Fridge/freezer
• Small appliances
• Security system
• Some smaller kitchen appliances
⚠️ It is not designed to run several high-power appliances at the same time, such as a geyser, stove and large appliances.
Best for: Keeping the essentials running and providing affordable backup power.
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☀️ 5kW SOLAR SYSTEM – Comfortable Home Backup
A good option for an average household wanting more than just basic backup.
Can typically run:
• Everything listed above
• Fridge/freezer
• TVs and entertainment
• Washing machine
• Dishwasher
• Microwave
• Kettle – preferably not at the same time as other high-power appliances
• Small/efficient air conditioner
• Pool pump
• Other household appliances, depending on their power requirements
Best for: A family home wanting a good balance between backup power, solar generation and affordability.
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☀️ 8kW SOLAR SYSTEM – High-Power Home
Designed for larger homes with higher electricity consumption.
Can typically handle:
• Everything on the 5kW system
• Multiple fridges/freezers
• Washing machine and dishwasher
• Microwave
• Kettle
• Pool pump
• Air conditioners
• More kitchen appliances
• Larger household loads
• Certain electric cooking appliances
With good battery capacity, you can comfortably run multiple appliances simultaneously.
Best for: Larger families and homes with higher daily electricity usage.
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☀️ 10kW SOLAR SYSTEM – Premium Home Solution
A powerful system for households wanting significantly more independence from the grid.
Can typically run:
• Multiple household appliances simultaneously
• Several fridges/freezers
• Washing machine
• Dishwasher
• Microwave
• Kettle
• Pool pump
• Multiple air conditioners
• Entertainment systems
• Larger kitchen appliances
• Higher-power equipment
It can also provide much better support for households with larger electrical loads.
Best for: Large homes with high electricity consumption and clients wanting greater energy independence.
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☀️ 12kW SOLAR SYSTEM – Maximum Home Capacity
This is a substantial residential system designed for high-demand households.
Depending on the inverter, battery capacity and electrical installation, it can handle combinations such as:
• Multiple fridges/freezers
• Washing machine
• Dishwasher
• Microwave
• Kettle
• Pool pump
• Multiple air conditioners
• TVs and entertainment systems
• Computers and home-office equipment
• Larger kitchen appliances
• Electric cooking
• Other high-demand household appliances
A 12kW inverter gives you considerably more available power, meaning you can use more appliances at the same time without exceeding the inverter's output capacity.
Best for: Large homes, high electricity users and clients wanting a premium solution with a high level of energy independence.
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🔋 AN IMPORTANT POINT ABOUT BATTERIES
The inverter size determines how much power you can use at one time, while the battery size determines how long you can run those appliances when there is no sunlight or during load shedding.
For example, a large inverter with a small battery can run powerful appliances, but the battery may not last very long under heavy loads.
That is why we recommend designing the inverter, solar panels and battery as a complete system, based on your actual electricity consumption and the appliances you need to operate.
☀️ WHICH SYSTEM IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
3kW → Essential appliances & basic backup
5kW → Comfortable everyday household backup
8kW → Larger household & multiple appliances
10kW → High electricity consumption & greater independence
12kW → Premium, high-demand home solution
At Resolve Electrical and Solar, we can assess your requirements and recommend the system that gives you the best combination of backup protection, electricity savings and value for money.
Please note: The exact appliances each system can operate depend on the appliance wattage, starting/surge loads, battery capacity, solar production and whether appliances are used simultaneously.
📲 Contact Resolve Electrical & Solar
061 463 3963 | [email protected]
