⚡ Power Usage Guidelines – Berry Springs Farmstay
Our property runs on solar energy supported by battery storage, which means electricity is limited after sunset and during cloudy days. Everyone must help use power responsibly to keep the system safe, efficient, and affordable.
☀️ Solar Power System
Our solar panels generate electricity when the sun is shining. Please help maximize their efficiency by:
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Using appliances and chargers during the day (between roughly 8 AM – 5 PM).
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Switching off all air conditioners and appliances before sunset.
- Switching off all electric plugs immediately after usage.
Backup Batteries
At night, power comes only from stored battery energy. These batteries have limited capacity and are meant to run lights, fridges, and essential equipment only.
Heavy usage (especially air conditioners) will drain the batteries quickly and cause a total power loss.
️ Cloudy Days
When the sky is overcast, solar generation drops dramatically.
Be extra careful with power use — unplug unnecessary devices, avoid cooking with electricity, and don’t use air conditioning.
️ Air Conditioning Use
Our batteries cannot support air conditioners overnight or during cloudy weather.
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If you wish to use air conditioning overnight, please discuss this in advance.
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A $50 per week energy contribution is requested to offset the additional power load and battery wear.
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Switch air conditioners off once the room is cool and never leave them running unattended.
⚙️ Appliance Usage
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Avoid using multiple high-power appliances at once — this will trip the system.
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The main house area already runs several appliances and should not be overloaded.
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The outdoor kitchen has a stove, microwave, and safe outlets for charging devices.
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Do not use heavy electrical appliances inside the caravan, as this may overload the circuit.
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Do not overload plugs or use double adapters.
Lights & Insects
To reduce insects, use headlamps or low lights outdoors at night instead of bright lamps, which attract mosquitoes and bugs.
Working Together
By following these guidelines, you help keep Berry Springs Farmstay safe, sustainable, and comfortable for everyone. Every person’s effort — from switching off unused devices to limiting air-con use — protects our off-grid solar system and keeps the property running smoothly.