10 Ways to save electricity this winter

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) is set to implement its annual Incline Block Tariffs (IBTs) electricity price increase on July 1, as is customary. This increase comes right in the middle of winter, a time when we are already using more electricity to heat our homes and keep ourselves warm.
MyVoltage-Save-electricity

Given the rising costs of living, it’s worth exploring a few tips and tricks to save on electricity. Remember, every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you conserve each month is not just a benefit for your wallet, but also a positive step for the planet.

Try these easy and cost-effective ways to cut down on electricity usage at home

1. Become a geyser guru

Did you know that your geyser accounts for approximately 30% of your home’s monthly electricity consumption? To reduce thermal energy loss, consider covering your geyser and its pipes with aerolite or isotherm insulation. Additionally, setting your geyser’s thermostat to 58 degrees Celsius can help you save even more on your electricity bill.

2. Light it “down”

Your lights may seem harmless, but they can consume up to 17% of your electricity bill! To cut down on costs, ensure that all your bulbs are energy-efficient LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) or CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps). Only turn on the lights when necessary, and use only the ones you need for the task at hand.

3. Shower it off

There’s nothing quite like a warm bath at the end of a long day—definitely a treat every now and then. However, switching those bubble baths for a quick 5-minute shower can make a significant difference in your energy usage. And let’s be honest, in winter, the sooner you can get into your PJs, the better, right?!
 

4. Pull the plug

Crazy fact: A plugged-in cellphone charger continues to draw power even when your phone isn’t charging. The same goes for any appliance left on standby or anything that emits a light. To ensure that no power is wasted without your consent, make it a habit to switch off or unplug these devices.

5. Dress for it

Whatever you do this winter, try to avoid using heaters. Not only do they consume a lot of electricity, but they also dry out the air, which can irritate your skin, eyes, nose, and throat. (Have you seen the price of Strepsils lately?)

Instead, dress warmly and add a blanket or two. A warm water bottle on your lap is also a cozy idea!

6. Know your consumption

Experts suggest that gaining insight into your consumption trends can help you save 5-15% on your electricity bills, and we couldn’t agree more. After all, how can you change a “bad” electricity consumption habit if you’re unaware of it? With MyVoltage, we take the guesswork out of the equation. Our meter provides real-time insights into your consumption, allowing you to pinpoint exactly where you can save.

7. Make the most of sunny SA

Yes, we may face loadshedding and potholes, but on the bright side, we have our beautiful sunshine. Make the most of it! Use the sun to dry your clothes — avoid the tumble dryer. Let it naturally heat and light your home. And because it’s something South Africans love, consider braaiing outdoors more often, giving your oven or stove a break for a night or two each week.

8. Become a fan of ceiling fans in winter

Did you know your ceiling fan doesn’t have to hibernate during winter? By setting it to low speed and reversing the rotation to clockwise, you can push the warm air that collects near the ceiling downwards. This simple adjustment can help you save on heating your home in an effective way.

9. Fix the flickering

Those flickering lights, appliances that trip the power, and buzzing or crackling noises from your wiring are more than just annoying—they can also be costly. Old or faulty wiring draws more electricity and poses significant health and safety risks. If you’re experiencing these issues, be sure to call a qualified electrician for assistance.

10. Benefit from residual heat

When cooking in the oven or on the stove, keep residual heat in mind: switch off these appliances 5 to 10 minutes before your food is fully cooked. Your meal will continue to cook perfectly! After removing food from the oven, leave the door slightly open to let that lovely heat circulate into the kitchen.

MyVoltage is all about empowering you to take control of your electricity consumption.

Switch to smart metering and gain confidence with MyVoltage!

10 Ways to save electricity this winter

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) is set to implement its annual Incline Block Tariffs (IBTs) electricity price increase on July 1, as is customary. This increase comes right in the middle of winter, a time when we are already using more electricity to heat our homes and keep ourselves warm.
MyVoltage-Save-electricity

Given the rising costs of living, it’s worth exploring a few tips and tricks to save on electricity. Remember, every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you conserve each month is not just a benefit for your wallet, but also a positive step for the planet.

Try these easy and cost-effective ways to cut down on electricity usage at home

1. Become a geyser guru

Did you know that your geyser accounts for approximately 30% of your home’s monthly electricity consumption? To reduce thermal energy loss, consider covering your geyser and its pipes with aerolite or isotherm insulation. Additionally, setting your geyser’s thermostat to 58 degrees Celsius can help you save even more on your electricity bill.

2. Light it “down”

Your lights may seem harmless, but they can consume up to 17% of your electricity bill! To cut down on costs, ensure that all your bulbs are energy-efficient LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) or CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps). Only turn on the lights when necessary, and use only the ones you need for the task at hand.

3. Shower it off

There’s nothing quite like a warm bath at the end of a long day—definitely a treat every now and then. However, switching those bubble baths for a quick 5-minute shower can make a significant difference in your energy usage. And let’s be honest, in winter, the sooner you can get into your PJs, the better, right?!
 

4. Pull the plug

Crazy fact: A plugged-in cellphone charger continues to draw power even when your phone isn’t charging. The same goes for any appliance left on standby or anything that emits a light. To ensure that no power is wasted without your consent, make it a habit to switch off or unplug these devices.

5. Dress for it

Whatever you do this winter, try to avoid using heaters. Not only do they consume a lot of electricity, but they also dry out the air, which can irritate your skin, eyes, nose, and throat. (Have you seen the price of Strepsils lately?)

Instead, dress warmly and add a blanket or two. A warm water bottle on your lap is also a cozy idea!

6. Know your consumption

Experts suggest that gaining insight into your consumption trends can help you save 5-15% on your electricity bills, and we couldn’t agree more. After all, how can you change a “bad” electricity consumption habit if you’re unaware of it? With MyVoltage, we take the guesswork out of the equation. Our meter provides real-time insights into your consumption, allowing you to pinpoint exactly where you can save.

7. Make the most of sunny SA

Yes, we may face loadshedding and potholes, but on the bright side, we have our beautiful sunshine. Make the most of it! Use the sun to dry your clothes — avoid the tumble dryer. Let it naturally heat and light your home. And because it’s something South Africans love, consider braaiing outdoors more often, giving your oven or stove a break for a night or two each week.

8. Become a fan of ceiling fans in winter

Did you know your ceiling fan doesn’t have to hibernate during winter? By setting it to low speed and reversing the rotation to clockwise, you can push the warm air that collects near the ceiling downwards. This simple adjustment can help you save on heating your home in an effective way.

9. Fix the flickering

Those flickering lights, appliances that trip the power, and buzzing or crackling noises from your wiring are more than just annoying—they can also be costly. Old or faulty wiring draws more electricity and poses significant health and safety risks. If you’re experiencing these issues, be sure to call a qualified electrician for assistance.

10. Benefit from residual heat

When cooking in the oven or on the stove, keep residual heat in mind: switch off these appliances 5 to 10 minutes before your food is fully cooked. Your meal will continue to cook perfectly! After removing food from the oven, leave the door slightly open to let that lovely heat circulate into the kitchen.

MyVoltage is all about empowering you to take control of your electricity consumption.

Switch to smart metering and gain confidence with MyVoltage!

Like to know more? Contact us.

We are here for you and would love to hear from you.
Feel free to contact us via phone or e-mail.
Office Hours: 087 057 2561
After Hours:
079 492 5036
E-mail:
info@myvoltage.co.za

Like to know more? Contact us.

We are here for you and would love to hear from you.
Feel free to contact us via phone or e-mail.
Office Hours: 087 057 2561
After Hours:
079 492 5036
E-mail:
info@myvoltage.co.za

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