LOAD SHEDDING is a familiar word on everyone’s lips these days as our whole country is affected by it.
As Eskom struggles to balance the constrained supply and rising demand for electricity, it is inevitable that the cost of power is going to increase, adding to the financial burden on struggling South African households.
“By implementing a few simple steps most households can cut their electricity bill by 20%,” says Gavin Moir, head of marketing at Direct Axis, in a media statement by Meropa communications.
Gavin’s energy saving tips are:
• Manage your geyser
Heating water is hugely energy intensive. By limiting the time your geyser works to when you need hot water, rather than all day, you can save a lot of power.
The most convenient way to ensure your geyser is off when you’re at work is to install a timer. Alternatively you can manually switch it off when you leave and switch it back on when you return home. You can also save by turning down the thermostat and insulating the geyser to reduce heat loss.
• Wrap it up
During winter about half the heat in your home can escape if it’s not properly insulated. Rather than crank up the heaters, make sure that gaps around doors and windows have sealant strips and that the roof is properly insulated.
• Light with LED
Replacing your light bulbs with the LED equivalent. LEDs use at least 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer, so you’ll also save money on replacing bulbs.
• Switch off at the socket
You can save up to 6% by turning off appliances at the wall.
Televisions and other items with standby features still draw power even when not in use.
• Unplug your devices
Unplug cellphone and other chargers when not in use as these still use power even if your phone isn’t plugged in. It is also not a good idea to allow phones and other devices to overcharge as this can limit the battery lifespan.
• Be stove smart
Use flat-bottomed pots and pans and make sure you’re cooking on an appropriately sized heating plate.
Using a lid when you’re boiling water for eggs or vegetables will speed up cooking times and save power.
According to industry experts just these tips can save up to 25% of the power used for cooking. Use your oven sparingly and remember that microwaves use a lot less power than a traditional oven.
• Be cooling clever
Many people have their fridge and freezers set too low. This wastes electricity and also increases the defrosting intervals. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Use machines sensibly
Using cold water in your washing machine will reduce electricity costs. There are a number of products which increase the efficiency of cold washes. If clothes aren’t too dirty you can skip the pre-wash cycle. If you only have one or two plates and cups, wash them by hand rather than in the dishwasher. If you do have a dishwasher make sure it’s full before switching it on.
• Avoid heaters
Heaters are huge power guzzlers. By ensuring you home is well insulated and putting on a jersey rather than firing up the heater you’ll save power.
• Go solar
If you are able to, consider solar power. It’ll help reduce your reliance on Eskom and save money.