Energy saving remains high on the list of priorities for homeowners, especially with the newly approved increase on electricity tariffs over the next three years.
With Nersa (National Energy Regulator of SA) moving to approve the 9.41% hike in tariffs for the year 2019, homeowners will be looking for further ways to ensure their home is as energy efficient as it can be, says Mike Greeff, chief executive of Greeff Christie’s International Real Estate.
“With homeowners going to pay more after the price hikes, it is worthwhile to attempt to do what they can to keep their monthly electricity consumption as low as possible. It may require some time, and even some money to implement, but once this has been done, homeowners are sure to see the benefits of these measures.”
Ways Greeff advises homeowners to implement energy-saving measures include:
● Unplug unused plugs and chargers: these can significantly impact your electricity bill. By unplugging, you are making your electricity bill considerably less and decreasing the possible danger that comes along with leaving unused plugs switched on.
● Replace your desktop computer with a laptop: Desktops are reported to use as much as 80% more power than a laptop. While laptops can often be bought at a slightly higher price than desktop computers they offer the same, if not better, functionality to the user.
● Swop power-heavy appliances for energy-efficient ones: when shopping for appliances like washing machines, tumble dryers and dishwashers, be sure to check for ones that have shorter wash cycles and eco-efficient settings.
● Insulate your geyser: as your geyser warms and cools through the day, it loses heat unnecessarily and diminishes its energy efficiency. Lost heat means extra electricity is needed to reheat the geyser to the pre-set temperature.
● Automate your lighting and equipment: Outside lighting and equipment can be set to a photocell that turns lights on at night and off at sunrise. This avoids electricity being squandered by perimeter and outdoor lighting. Greeff says saving energy is not just about saving money.
“By being more energy efficient we can help reduce our carbon footprints and save precious fossil fuels. Being energy efficient also helps create a market for renewable energy products which is predicted to be the fastest growing industry over the next decade.”