Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Solar Panel FAQs 

Q1. Which is the best solar company in Kenya?

A1. MK Homestyles is one of the best solar providers in Kenya. We offer authentic brands,  certified technicians to help you with installation, and warranties. 

Q2. What is the cost of a 400 kW solar panel?

A2. A 400W solar panel in Kenya costs upwards of $ 11,000. The cost is often based on brand and technology. For instance, monocrystalline solar panels are typically at the higher end while polycrystalline panels cost slightly less. Prices include VAT but exclude installation and mounting hardware.

Q3. Which type of solar panel is best?

A3. Monocrystalline solar panels are the best choice for most Kenyan homes due to their higher efficiency (20-22%), better performance in low light, and longer lifespan (25+ years). They're more expensive than polycrystalline panels but produce more power per square meter—crucial for limited roof space.

Q4. Which is better, a solar panel or an inverter?

A4. Neither is "better" as they serve entirely different, yet equally essential, functions in a solar power system. The solar panel generates direct current (DC) electricity from sunlight, while an inverter converts that DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which is the usable power for your home or business appliances. You need both for a functional solar system.

Q5. Do you need an inverter for every solar panel?

A5. No, you don't need an inverter for every solar panel. Multiple solar panels are usually connected in series (forming a "string"), and this entire string connects to one central inverter. However, if you use microinverters, each solar panel will have its own dedicated microinverter.

Q6. How many solar panels can you put on one inverter?

A6. You can connect 8-12 solar panels to one residential inverter, depending on the inverter's capacity and panel wattage. For example, a 5kW inverter can handle 12-15 panels of 400W each. The secret is matching the total panel wattage to the inverter's maximum input capacity.

FAQs about Lighting Supplies Nairobi

Q1. What are the 4 types of lighting?

A1. The 4 types of lighting are: 1) Ambient lighting (general room illumination from ceiling fixtures), 2) Task lighting (focused light for specific activities like reading), 3) Accent lighting (decorative or highlighting fixtures), and 4) Decorative lighting (statement pieces like chandeliers that serve as room focal points). All four types of lighting are available at MK Homestyles.

Q2. What are the best lighting options?

A2. The best lighting options for Kenyan homes are LED fixtures due to their energy efficiency and longevity. Choose warm white LEDs (2700K-3000K) for living areas, cool white (4000K-5000K) for kitchens and offices, and dimmable options for flexibility. Smart LEDs offer remote control and scheduling features.

Q3. Which light is better than LED?

A3. No mainstream lighting technology surpasses LED in terms of energy efficiency, lifespan, and versatility. OLED lights offer superior light quality but are expensive and mainly used for specialty applications. LED remains the best choice for practical home and business use today.

Q4. How to illuminate a room?

A4. Layer lighting! Combine ambient lighting (general overhead light, e.g., ceiling fixtures like flush mounts or chandeliers), task lighting (for specific activities, e.g., a desk lamp for reading), and accent lighting (to highlight features, e.g., a picture light for artwork). These lighting solutions are available at MK Homestyles.

Q5. What does LED stand for?

A5. LED stands for Light Emitting Diode. It’s an energy-saving lighting technology that emit light when an electric current passes through it.

Q6. How to light a TV room?

A6. To light a TV room use indirect lighting to avoid screen glare. For instance, install dimmable LED strip lights behind your TV to prevent eye strain, and supplement them with warm floor lamps to maintain visibility in the room. Avoid placing any lights directly in front of the TV or behind seating areas where they'd create shadows on the screen.

Q7. How long do LEDs last?

A7. Quality LEDs last 25,000 to 50,000 hours—that's roughly 15-25 years with normal household use. Dust-proof options at MK Homestyles last even longer in dry Kenyan climates. This makes them incredibly cost-effective despite higher upfront costs compared to traditional bulbs.

Q8. How to backlight a room?

A8. To backlight a room use LED strips mounted behind furniture, TVs, or architectural features. Install strips with adhesive backing along wall edges, behind headboards, or under cabinets. Use RGB LED strips for color-changing effects or warm white for subtle ambient lighting that reduces eye strain.(Solar-powered LED snake lights available at MK Homestyles). Alternatively consider recessed ceiling lights or down lights.

Q9. Why do my LED lights burn out so fast?

A9. LED lights burn out quickly due to poor quality components, voltage fluctuations, overheating from inadequate ventilation, or incompatible dimmer switches.

Solar Flood Lights & Solar Street Lights FAQs

Q1. Are solar floodlights any good?

A1. Yes, solar floodlights, especially those offered at MK Homestyles are highly efficient. They offer zero electricity costs, remarkably easy installation (no wiring needed!), low maintenance, and reliable operation even during power outages, making them an excellent choice for any property.

Q2. Are solar street lights worth it?

A2. Yes, solar street lights are worth it, especially in Kenya. They mean zero bills, minimal maintenance, and a 5-7 year lifespan.

Q3. How much is solar floodlight in Kenya?

A3. Solar floodlight prices in Kenya range from KSh 1,500 for basic 30W-60W models to KSh 20,000+ for high-power, commercial-grade 500W+ units. The price depends on wattage, battery capacity, smart features (like motion sensors), and brand. Check out our product pages to explore affordable solar floodlight prices in Kenya.

Q4. How long do solar street lights last?

A4. Solar street lights last 3-7 years, depending on initial quality and maintenance.

Q5. How much is 300W solar floodlight in Kenya?

A5. 300W solar floodlights in Kenya typically start at Kes 3000, depending on the brand, battery quality, and additional features. The range offered at MK Homestyles specifically starts at KSH 3000 and upwards.

Q6.What kind of battery is used in solar street lights?

A6. Solar street lights typically feature Lithium-ion batteries. However, some variants come with a lead-acid battery, and are usually cheaper than the Li-ion varieties.

Q7. How much is Modi solar flood light in Kenya?

A7. Modi solar floodlights in Kenya start from KES 3000 for 50W models and go up to KES 15,000 for 200W versions.

Q8. Which type of lamps are used in solar street lights?

A8. Solar street lights use LED lamps exclusively for their energy efficiency and long lifespan.

Q9. How do I choose a solar floodlight?

A9. Choose a solar floodlight based on its wattage (to match your brightness needs), battery capacity (for desired nightly runtime), solar panel efficiency, and essential features like motion sensors or dusk-to-dawn functionality. Always check the IP (Ingress Protection) rating for weather resistance. But you don't have to figure it out alone. Our assistants at MK Homestyles are always ready to help you choose.

Q10. Do solar flood lights need direct sunlight?

A10. Yes, solar floodlights need direct sunlight to charge their internal batteries. While they can still charge on cloudy days, prolonged direct sunlight is necessary for optimal charging. In cloudy areas (e.g., Kericho), we recommend higher-wattage panels.

Q11.What are two types of floodlights?

A11. Two common types of floodlights are traditional wired floodlights (which connect directly to your mains electricity) and solar-powered floodlights (which operate independently using a solar panel and integrated battery). Both varieties are available at MK Homestyles.

Solar Cameras & CCTV FAQs

Q1. How much is solar camera in Kenya?

A1. Solar camera prices in Kenya depend on factors like resolution, battery capacity, smart features (like AI detection, two-way audio), and brand. Nonetheless,  prices typically range from Ksh 9000 upward.(Explore our range today).

Q2. Does a CCTV camera record without electricity?

A2. A standard CCTV camera cannot record without electricity. However, solar and battery powered CCTV cams continue recording even during power outages.

Q3. Do solar security cameras work without WIFI?

A3. Yes! 4G/LTE models (like ours) use SIM cards and with some models, you can use an SD card. However, WiFi connectivity provides the best user experience for real-time monitoring and alerts.

Q4. How much data does a security camera use?

A4. A single security camera can use anywhere from 1GB to 60GB+ of data per month. If you’d like to use data consumption consider surveillance cameras with motion-detection as it greatly reduces data usage compared to continuous recording.

Q5. Can CCTV work with an inverter?

A5. Yes a CCTV can work with an inverter. A typical 4-camera CCTV system uses 40-80 watts, so a 500W inverter can power it for 6-8 hours. For longer backup times, use a larger inverter with additional batteries.

Q6. What size UPS do I need for a security camera system?

A6. For a 4-camera CCTV system, you need a 600VA-1000VA UPS providing 2-4 hours backup time. However, the exact size UPS you need depends on the total power consumption (watts) of your cameras, DVR/NVR, and any monitors, as well as your desired backup run-time.

Q7. Can CCTV work in darkness?

A7. Yes, most modern CCTV cameras, especially those from HIK Vision(available at MK Homestyles),work effectively in total darkness using infrared (IR) night vision.

Q8. What does the red light on CCTV mean?

A8. The red light on a CCTV camera typically indicates that the infrared (IR) night vision is active, especially in low-light conditions. Some CCTVs use the red light as a deterrent to show the system is active, while others simply use it to show the camera is powered and recording. Disable it in settings for discreet monitoring.

Q9. Can I connect my security camera to my phone without WIFI?

A9. Yes, you can connect security cameras to your phone without WiFi using: cellular data (cameras with 4G connectivity), mobile hotspot from your phone, or direct wireless connection for local viewing. However, remote monitoring requires some form of internet connectivity.

Q10. How much power does a CCTV system use per hour?

A10. A typical home CCTV system (e.g., 4-8 cameras plus a DVR/NVR) might consume between 15W and 60W per hour. IP cameras can use 3-10W each, while DVR/NVR units typically consume 10-25W.

FAQs about MK Homestyles

Q1: What products do you offer?
A: At MK HomeStyles, we offer a wide range of electrical and electronics products—from the latest smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs to home appliances and essential electrical supplies. We carefully select quality products from reputable brands to meet your everyday needs.

Q2: Where is your store located?
A: Our physical store is located in Ruiru, Kenya. We serve local customers and businesses, ensuring you have access to the latest technology and electrical solutions.

Q3: Do you deliver countrywide?
A: Yes! We provide delivery services across Kenya. No matter where you are located, we ensure that your order reaches you quickly and securely.

Q4: What payment methods do you accept?
A: We offer a variety of secure payment options, including M-Pesa, Airtel Money, bank transfers, and credit/debit cards. Our aim is to make your shopping experience as convenient as possible.

Q5: How do I place an order?
A: Placing an order is easy. Simply browse our online shop, add your desired products to the cart, and follow the checkout process. For any assistance, feel free to contact our customer support team.

Q6: What is your return policy?
A: We stand by the quality of our products. If you encounter any issues or are unsatisfied with your purchase, please contact us within 30 days for a return or exchange. Specific details can be found on our Returns Policy page.

Q7: How can I contact customer support?
A: Our dedicated customer support team is here to help. You can reach us at 📲 0711853439 or via our Contact Us page. We're also on TikTok, Instagram, and WhatsApp, striving to respond promptly and resolve any queries or concerns you may have.