Bad APC UPS

On 16 July 2022 I bought an APC BX950MI UPS from takealot. I was exceptionally pleased with the performance. In particular, a NAS and 2 routers lasted just under 2 hours. 4 months later, I still get the same performance from the takealot APC UPS.

Buoyed by the performance of this takealot APC UPS I decided to buy the APC BX1600MI UPS from FirstShop because it was slightly cheaper than Takealot. 3 hour battery life ould be enough to get me through load shedding. I ordered it from FirstShop and it was promptly delivered. It did last more than 2 hours on arrival. Now, within a month, I cannot get one hour running only the 2 routers. The APC software runs a diagnostic check and everything is okay. It says battery life is 55 minutes. I am deeply disappointed.

Despite my disappointment I have a learnt a lesson -- shop at takelaot don't take a chance with the others. I burnt my fingers at PC-Link shop and now with FirstShop. Takealot has good deals so either wait or just pay the extra for peace of mind. I now believe that many of these online shops sell dud or refurbished products and that is how they compete with takealot.