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0 viewsIn winter our electricity bills usually sky rocket and now with the increased tariffs, our rates are becoming a cause for concern. It is therefore imperative to implement ways in which to save energy and water in our homes.
Siân Berry’s useful book, 50 Ways to Save Water and Energy, opens with a quote by Confucius: The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones. This quote is particularly true when it comes to making a difference in the environment. Becoming aware of alternatives is the first step towards creating an energy efficient home. With this said, South Africans need simple ways to save water and energy yet still keep warm in winter.
Here are some tips from Berry’s book adjusted for South Africans:
1. Tip number one (most tricky during the winter time) is to shower and not bath. Showering uses 30 litres of water as opposed to 100 litres when you bath.
2. Consider investing in an aerating shower head that brings air into the water flow to keep the pressure high while reducing the amount of water used.
3. Try not to use your toilet as a waste bin and throw things in there that do not need to be there. Put rubbish in the bin instead. Only use the toilet when you need to.
4. Adjust your washing machine to the shortest spin cycle i.e. 30 minutes. Keep loads as full as possible.
5. Try and source eco detergents and steer clear of using chemical detergents. Also use eco washing up liquid – if you do so, then you can reuse your dirty washing water to feed the plants in your home. Do not let the price of eco and organic products put you off. In fact many eco products last longer than your usual detergents and you will end up using less. Try The Victorian Garden products (available at most health shops).
6. Insulate your roof with affordable Eco-Insulation. This insulation is a pulp containing cellulose fibre which is made of recyclable newspaper and helps keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. Check out www.eco-insulation.co.za.
7. Switch off your plugs when you are not using them. Make this a habit.
8. Use the kettle for boiling water rather than heating it up in the pan which takes much longer. If you boil an egg, water your plants with the leftover water. Plants will benefit from the nutrients released from the eggshells.
9. Purchase fruit and vegetables from farmers markets. Not only may the fruit and vegetables be of a higher quality, you will also be supporting local farmers and you will help the environment by not purchasing the plastic that most fruit and vegetables are packaged in.
10. If you have an indoor fireplace, make a fire instead of putting on the heater.
So wrap your self in layers and drink a glass of red wine to keep warm! The trick is to maintain energy in your home while reducing electricity tariffs. Be conscious of making the right decisions for your family and the environment.
Check out www.go-organic.co.za for a directory of organic products for you and your family.