Load shedding has become a frequent challenge for many South Africans, as the national power grid often faces significant pressure. Efficiently managing electricity use is now more crucial than ever. This guide provides practical advice on how to save on electricity expenses while dealing with load shedding, helping you maintain comfort without overspending.
The Importance of Energy Conservation
The «Please Use Only What You Need» initiative highlights the necessity for both households and businesses to use electricity wisely. The objective is to lessen the strain on the national power grid and decrease the frequency of load shedding. As Eskom states, «Together, we can make a difference.» By embracing energy-saving practices and utilizing efficient technologies, everyone can contribute to a more reliable power supply.
Simple Adjustments, Big Savings
Heating and Cooling:
- Instead of using electric heaters, which can account for a significant portion of evening peak power, opt for warm clothing and blankets. A hot water bottle is a great alternative to an electric blanket.
- Utilize natural light by opening curtains during the day to allow sunlight and warmth inside, and close them at night to keep the heat in.
Lighting:
- A straightforward way to cut electricity use is by switching off lights when they’re not needed, leading to substantial savings.
- Adopt energy-efficient bulbs by replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with CFLs or LEDs, which consume less power and have a longer lifespan.
Kitchen Appliances:
- When preparing tea or coffee, boil just the amount of water you require to cut down on kettle energy use.
- Opt for cold water for tasks like washing hands and rinsing produce to avoid unnecessary geyser activation.
- Optimize fridge and freezer use by setting your fridge to 3˚C, ensuring seals are intact, avoiding frequent door openings, and placing appliances away from heat sources.
Cooking:
- Use efficient cooking techniques like microwaving small meals and using pressure cookers or slow cookers for dishes requiring long cooking times. Match pot sizes to stove plates to prevent energy waste.
- Skip oven preheating and keep the oven door closed until food is ready to maintain heat and reduce cooking time.
Dishwashers and Laundry:
- Run full loads only in dishwashers or washing machines to maximize efficiency.
- Use cold water settings for laundry, as most clothes don’t need hot water, saving energy.
Air Conditioning and Heating:
- Set optimal temperatures for air conditioners to a comfortable 23˚C in summer, ensuring windows and doors are closed to maintain cool temperatures efficiently.
- Insulate effectively using fire retardant ceiling insulation to keep your home up to 10˚C cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Install awnings on sun-facing windows to reduce heat entry.
Geysers:
- Insulate geysers and pipes with a geyser blanket and insulate the first 1.5 meters of water pipes to maintain water temperature and reduce energy consumption.
- Use hot water wisely by avoiding letting it run unnecessarily. Use basin plugs and choose cold water for quick tasks.
Strategies for Handling Load Shedding
Stay Updated:
Monitor Power Alerts on SABC, etv, and DStv for color-coded information on electricity supply status and necessary actions to reduce demand.
Prepare for Outages:
- Familiarize yourself with your home’s mains box location. In a power outage, check if the main switch has tripped and reset it if needed.
- Consult an electrician if unsure during an outage to avoid accidents.
Conduct Energy Audits and Use Smart Devices:
- Perform a power audit to identify areas where you can save electricity. Consider using smart plugs and timers to manage appliance usage efficiently.
- Upgrade to efficient appliances with an A-rating on the South African Energy Efficiency Label for long-term savings.
Enhance Security:
Ensure safety during outages by securing your home with padlocks, burglar bars, and deadbolts. Keep torches or solar-powered lights handy.
By implementing these energy-saving tips and strategies, you can significantly lower your electricity use and manage load shedding more effectively. This not only helps save money but also contributes to a more stable and sustainable power grid for all South Africans.
For More Information and Assistance:
- Eskom: Website
- South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI): Tel: 012 844 0000, Email: [email protected]
- Department of Energy: Website
By collaborating and making small changes in our daily habits, we can significantly impact electricity usage and help reduce the frequency of load shedding.
