Energy Saving
Change the light bulbs
Use energy saving light bulbs. Not only do they use less energy, the bulbs last longer.
Insulate your roof
Heat loss (in winter) and heat penetration (in summer) can be reduced by placing a layer of insulation above your ceiling. You will use less energy to heat and cool your house. If do not spend energy on heating and cooling, this is an easy way to increase the comfort level in your home.
Switch to gas for cooking
Most of SA's power is produced in coal-fired power stations. Use cleaner burning gas (which is also quicker to heat) reduces the demand on dirty energy.
Use your fridge and freezer wisely
Do not put hot food into your fridge - allow it to cool at room temperature first Keep your freezer full - store your ice packs in the freezer, and take out as you need space. The frozen ice in the freezer helps keep the temperature down, and therefore reduces the energy demand. Do not leave the fridge door open unnecessarily.
Heat water with solar energy
While the initial outlay may be significant (between R12 000 and R30 000) the saving on electricity is substantial. Your geyser is usually the single highest energy user in the house. Sunlight is free!
Boil the kettle efficiently
Fill the kettle with the water you need only. Less water, quicker boil. Or: Boil the kettle and fill a flask. Use from the flask rather than boiling the kettle frequently. This work especially well where refreshments are served frequently.
Match the pots and pans
To the size of the ring on the stove! Maximum coverage, better efficiency.
Slow cook in the winter
This tip is good for you too - take more time, go slowly. Dust off the slow-cooker or croc pot for energy saving.
No cook in the summer
Another good for you tip - go with more raw food in summer. Your health will benefit as much as your energy bill
Turn off
So obvious that we forget. Turn off - at the plug - the appliances not in use. Include your hi-fi, tv, PC, battery chargers. Some appliances continue to draw a small amount of current even when they are not in use.
Timer switches and light sensitive bulbs
Leave a light on when you go out? Consider replacing that habit with timer switches that alternate the light that are on, and for outdoors, install a light sensitive bulb. When the sun set, the light comes on. These are available in low energy bulbs and work well.
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