WATER and electricity interruptions have left the community of Durban North irate, but two residents have found a way to beat the utility blues.
Also read: No end in sight to north Durban water interruptions
Johann van den Berg, who leads the water, sanitation and electricity portfolio under the Ward 36 Committee, installed an invertor at his premises to power up small appliances, such as the Wi-Fi router, TV and decoder, and he’s able to charge small devices.
“The invertor is also linked to one 5W downlighter in each room so when the power is out at night, the rooms still have light coming through. These interventions may cost money to implement but will make life easier and more comfortable for you. It’s money worth spending,” he said.
Van den Berg also has a 5 000-litre water tank installed outside his home which is plumbed.
“When there’s no water, I am still able to bath, flush toilets and use water in the kitchen,” he added.
There are also tanks around the property that collect rainwater. Van den Berg uses these for watering plants and chores outside the house.
His power-saving tips include swapping 40W downlighters for 5W and purchasing a gas stove.
“Things aren’t going to get better anytime soon, so if you’re in a position to make life easier for yourself when there are no water and lights, you should go for it,” he added.
Mike Raubenheimer, another Durban North resident, said he installed a 1 000-litre water tank on his property about eight years ago. The system is also plumbed and supplies the entire house with water.
“There are three people living on the property, and we use this water for everything. Water goes into the geyser, as well, so we are able to shower,” he said.
The tank fills with municipal water, and the only issue that may arise is if there’s a power outage and water interruption simultaneously.
“This is because the pump works with electricity. I’m also mindful of how I consume water during an interruption. I don’t do any washing because washing machines use a lot of water,” he added.
Raubenheimer also advised residents to install a small tank on their properties, to collect rainwater and use it for gardening, washing cars, cleaning floors and outdoor chores.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook, X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
