Save by going green
Category Advice
With the current economic conditions in the country, homeowners are trying to save as much money as they can. A smart way to increase spending power is to reduce the costs of water and electricity bills. By going green, you can save a bundle. Here are ways to do it:
Water Tanks
In 2018, the World Wide Fund (WWF) for Nature identified South Africa as one of the 30 driest countries in the world. Recent water shortages in Cape Town saw the rest of the country pay more attention to create innovative ways of saving water. Water tanks have become a popular choice for households as they are able to store and filter rainwater for daily use. Different tanks can be used for different purposes - for instance, water for irrigation use does not need to be purified. The best part is that rainwater is FREE! This allows you to decrease the use of municipality water and reduce your water bills - leaving you with more money. Other easy daily methods to save water include; have shorter showers, avoid filling up the bathtub, and do not leave the tap running while brushing your teeth.
Solar Energy
Solar technology is rapidly becoming a favourite in eco-friendly home design. Not only is it safe for daily use, but it is also environmentally-friendly as the sun is the ultimate source of energy. A recent report from www.energy.gov.za reveals that South Africa's annual 24-hour global solar radiation average is about 220 W/m2 (Kilowatt-hours per square meter) as compared to 150 W/m2 for parts of the USA. Furthermore, SA averages more than 2 500 hours of sunshine per year, while average solar-radiation levels range between 4.5 and 6.5kWh/m2 in one day.
In other words, these figures prove that having a solar-powered home is a great investment in South Africa as it can lower your electricity bills. Solar energy further ensures that you have electricity during power failures and load shedding. It can be used to power equipment such as lighting, water pumps, and more.
Prepaid Electricity
South African households are increasingly switching to prepaid electricity systems. Not only does it aid in reducing electricity costs, but homeowners can also better manage and monitor their daily usage. Having a prepaid system also means that homeowners are no longer required to pay a service charge to the municipality which covers meter reading, network charges, and billing and meter capital expenditure.
Appliances
The Department of Energy has recently introduced an energy-efficiency campaign for a labelling standard to be implemented on all new appliances sold in the country. It is further accompanied by an easy-to-use mobile app which allows consumers to calculate and compare the estimated annual running costs of any labelled appliances before they buy them. Consumers who are trying to save on water and electricity will find this campaign very nifty as they can now purchase the appliances that best suit their pockets and assist them in cutting costs for the future.
Insulation
A great way to save on your electricity bills is to insulate the roof of your home. Not only is it easy to do, but it is also relatively affordable. In the winter months, it keeps your home warm and reduces the need for heating, while in summer your home stays cool. Recycled cotton or paper are some of the most eco-friendly options for insulation materials.
Going green in your home not only reduces your electricity and water costs, but it will also increase the resale appeal and value of your home. Future owners will instantly recognise the saving potential and take advantage of the offer.
Author: De Lucia Group
