Tips on how to reduce your number

Pledge to Save

Now that you know your number! Let’s find out how you can reduce it? It’s time we reduced your energy consumption by 10%. Live lightly without spending a cent! It’s that easy!

Visit each room below for no cost, low cost and invest to save solutions.

Bedroom and Bathroom

No Cost Solutions
- I’m going to turn my geyser thermostat down to 55 ºC.
- I will turn the basin mixer to the cold position when I’m not using it.
- I will reduce shower time to 5 minutes to also make sure that I’m on time – goodbye to being late.
Low Cost Interventions
- I will insulate my geyser and hot water pipes.
- I will install reduced flow showerheads to decrease my hot water usage.
- I will install a geyser timer.
Invest To Save
- I will invest in ceiling fans, rather than using air conditioning
- I only have a bathtub, so I will install a shower to save me time and money!
- I will invest in solar water heating or a heat pump.

Kitchen

No Cost Solutions
- Ensure the fridge/freezer does not stand in direct sunlight and make sure there is enough space around it to ensure airflow which helps to keep the motor cool
- I will only boil as much water as I need in my kettle to ensure that I save.
- I’ll defrost frozen foods overnight in the fridge instead of using the microwave, and having to wait.
- I will match my pot size with the plate size on my stove at all times.
- I’ll keep the oven door closed while preparing my meal, and switch it off 10-15 minutes before the cooking time. The heat in the oven will be enough to complete cooking my meal.
- I will use the microwave instead of the oven or stove where possible
- I’ll use a toaster instead of toasting bread in the oven; it’s much faster.
- I’ll cook as many “one-pot” meals as possible, instead of using multiple stove plates
- I will cook extra when possible and freeze portions to use later in the week.
- I’ll try to have more cold meals during summer months, its healthy and energy efficient!
Low Cost Interventions
- I will use energy efficient small appliances as much as I can like a kettle, toaster, iron, electric pressure cooker, induction plate and/or microwave.
Invest To Save
- This consistently humid area, needs me to invest in energy efficient white appliances such as a fridge, washing machine, dishwasher and/or tumble dryer
- I will invest in a gas stove.

Lounge

No Cost Solutions
- I’ve decided to switch off all the lights that I’m not using.
Low Cost Interventions
- I will insulate my ceiling/roof.
- I will change all my lights to CFLs or LEDs to energy efficient ones.
- If you have windows facing west receiving afternoon sun, plant an indigenous tree, allowing for shade in summer, and sunsihine in winter when it loses its leaves.
- I’ll use window and door seals to reduce ventilation in winter.
Invest To Save
- I will invest in a gas heater and only use it when need be.
- I will invest in double glazed windows
- I will invest in a free standing or built in fireplace, with a flute.
- I will install internal wall insulation.
- I will invest in floor options such as wood, wood laminate, carpets and other options to keep heat better than tiles or stone type flooring.

Outdoor

No Cost Solutions
- I will install sensor lighting outside, or place my lights on timers.
- I will install a pool pump timer.
Low Cost Interventions
- I will invest in alternative energy sources such as solar panels.
- I will install external wall facade insulation for north and west facing walls.