Electricity has become a bane in our lives – not only does it increase in price by double digits each year, but we also face the ongoing possibility (perhaps probability) of load shedding.
But we can be proactive as there are many ways to cut costs and with some research and a good plan you can cut electricity costs by 40%, by taking steps such as:
There are several things you can do with your geyser. Turning the thermostat down can save 150kwh (kilowatt hour) per month, putting in a timer can save even more (although it does cost up to R1,250), whilst putting on an energy blanket also saves money. A heat pump can reduce 60% of the geyser’s energy consumption but they are expensive (up to R16,000) and noisy. Solar geysers are slightly more expensive than heat pumps, are quiet and operate well (assuming your area has plenty of sunlight). Remember that a geyser makes up 40% of your monthly electricity bill.
Switch off unnecessary lights as these costs add up. Get into the habit of turning off lights you aren’t using.
LED lights are big savers – it’s common sense that moving from 40 watt to 3 watt bulbs will drive power costs down – up to 2000 kwh per month. Prices for LED bulbs have also dropped rapidly, and you can purchase them for R20. Don’t forget downlights and outside lights when considering LED as these latter two use 40 to 45 watt bulbs.
Washing in cold water also yields savings as do new fridges which can save up to 150 kwh per month but cost from R7,000 upwards.
Use of gas for cooking also saves as a 9-kilogram gas cylinder only costs R200 for up to 6 months.
Finally, there is solar which is expensive (costs vary depending on requirements and scale). If your local authority allows you to sell back your excess solar power to them, then solar becomes an attractive investment.
Solar power is getting cheaper and more sophisticated and offers you the possibility of reducing or eliminating your exposure to load shedding.
There are many ways to save on electricity – why not start now?
Disclaimer: The information provided herein should not be used or relied on as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your professional adviser for specific and detailed advice.
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