With the prospect of load shedding continuing for the next month, the Addie has sourced some energy saving tips to help reduce the demand on the energy grid and perhaps negate the need for lengthy load shedding epriods.
- Reduce the temperature of your geyser to around 55 degrees Celsius so that you don’t need to add too much cold water when you shower or do the dishes.
- Remember to keep the lid on the pot when you cook to conserve heat and energy. The size of the pot should match the size of the stove plate; this can save you up to 25% on the electricity you use while cooking.
- Close the windows and doors when the heater is on and save money.
- Close the door every time you take things out of the fridge and also check that it seals properly.
- Soak beans, samp and other related dry food over night. This will save time, money and several hours of cooking.
- Try to boil only the water you need instead of boiling a full pot or kettle every time.
- Insulate your geyser by wrapping newspapers, old blankets or other insulating materials around it and the hot water pipes.
- Switch off lights, fans, computers and other energy-consuming appliances when you leave the room. It will save you money.
- Always try to use appropriate cooking utensils when cooking; for example, use pots and pans with a flat bottom, as these consume up to 50% less energy. Note that electric stoves consumes a lot of electricity so use the plates and oven as little as possible.
- Use the right energy for the right purposes; for example, use heaters for space heating rather than hotplates, and use an electrical kettle for water heating rather than an ordinary pot on the stove. You will use about 50% less electricity. Electricity is good for electronic devices but gas is more efficient for heating and cooking.
- Enjoy a comfortable indoor climate both summer and winter by ventilating your room properly on a daily basis. Remember to switch off your heater, fan or air conditioner while ventilating the room.
- Reduce your electricity account by skipping the washing machine’s pre-wash cycle if your clothes are not particularly dirty. This will use up to 20% less electricity.
- Save water and electricity by washing your bed linen at 60 degrees Celsius instead of 90 degrees; it will still be clean!
- (If you are already using a heater to combat the cooler weather) Reduce the temperature on the heater from full heat to a comfortable level.
- Turn off all stand-by modes every time you leave the house and before going to bed.
- Use energy-saving light bulbs. They last much longer and use less electricity, saving you money in the long run.
- Reduce your electricity bill by doing all your ironing at the same time.
- Check you electricity or gas meter at regular intervals and take a keen interest in your energy consumption level.
Share your energy consumption information with your neighbours; discuss your electricity bills!
