As Eskom struggles to balance 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.<\/p>\n
Although there\u2019s little that you can do to stop the price increases you can lessen their impact by taking steps to reduce your electricity consumption now.<\/p>
\u201cThere are a number of benefits including a reasonable cost saving,\u201d explained Gavin Moir, head of marketing at Direct Axis.<\/p>\n
\u201cBy implementing a few simple steps most households can cut their electricity bill by 20 per cent.\u201d<\/p>
Moir\u2019s energy saving tips are:<\/p>\n
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\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n
During winter about half the heat in your home can escape if it\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
Replacing your light bulbs with the LED equivalent. LEDs use at least 75 per cent less energy and last up to 25 times longer, so you\u2019ll also save money on replacing bulbs.<\/p>\n
You can save up to 6\u00a0per cent\u00a0by turning off appliances at the wall. Televisions and other items with standby features still draw power even when not in use.<\/p>\n
Unplug cell phone and other chargers when not in use as these still use power even if your phone isn\u2019t plugged in. It\u2019s also not a good idea to allow phones and other devices to overcharge as this can limit the battery lifespan.<\/p>\n
Use flat-bottomed pots and pans and make sure you\u2019re cooking on an appropriately sized heating plate. Using a lid when you\u2019re 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\u00a0per cent\u00a0of the power used for cooking. Use your oven sparingly and remember that microwaves use a lot less power than a traditional oven.<\/p>\n
Many people have their fridge and freezers set too low. This wastes electricity and also increases the defrosting intervals. Check the manufacturer\u2019s guidelines.<\/p>\n
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\u2019t 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\u2019s full before switching it on.<\/p>\n
Heaters are huge power guzzlers. By ensuring you home is well insulated and putting on a jersey rather than firing up the heater you\u2019ll save power.<\/p>\n
If you are able to, consider solar power. It\u2019ll help reduce your reliance on Eskom and save money.<\/p>\n
For more about household savings visit https:\/\/www.directaxis.co.za\/topics-tips-tools.aspx?newsCategoryID=2<\/a><\/p>\n