Prepaid electricity prices rising? Here's how to get the most out of it

You've likely noticed it - refilling your prepaid electricity meter stings a little more these days. That's because prepaid electricity prices jumped by 12.74% in April, adding another layer of strain to household budgets. This means the average electricity tariff has risen from around R1.84 per kWh to approximately R2.07. With households averaging 350 kWh per month, South Africans are now expected to pay in the region of R724.50 monthly - up from R644.

While you can't control the price hike, you can take steps to manage your consumption and keep your electricity bill in check. This article will equip you with tips and tricks to navigate rising electricity costs and become a more energy-savvy consumer.

Do an energy audit: The advantage of having a prepaid electricity meter is being able to monitor your electricity use. You can quickly pick up which appliance or activity is taking up the bulk of your consumption and work on ways to curb or reduce it. 

Purchase electricity smartly: While you can buy electricity through many retailers, doing it through the bank can help you save. Some banks allow you to purchase electricity without additional charges. Through rewards programmes like eBucks and Discovery Miles, you can earn cashback or discounts to use towards electricity purchases. 

Swap out your light bulbs: While incandescent bulbs might have a lower upfront price than LED lighting, the latter makes up for this in the long run. They can use up to 90% less energy and last longer, helping you save electricity. 

Paint the walls of your home: Dark colours tend to absorb light, needing more energy from light bulbs to illuminate a room. Instead, opt for light colours that can reflect light and make a room feel brighter into the evening. A bonus tip: positioning mirrors strategically can also help reflect more ambient light into your home. 

Slay those energy vampires: Pinpoint appliances and devices that silently suck up power even when on standby. This can include phone charger plugs, air conditioning, game consoles, microwaves, and TVs. The immediate drain might be negligible but can add up over time. 

Use your appliances correctly: Setting refrigerators and freezers at the wrong temperature can take a big bite out of your utility budget. The optimal temperature for your refrigerator is about 3°C, and your freezer should be at -20°C (according to the major appliance manufacturers). However, be sure to consult your manufacturer's guide for optimum settings.

Get your geyser use under control: Heating water is a major drain on electricity for households. Instead, install a geyser timer to switch it off when unused, explore installing a geyser blanket to insulate warmth, and replace your unit when needed to ensure water is heated efficiently.

Level up your washing routine: Laundry and dishwashing are great places to save water. For both, ensure you run your machines only when you have a full load to cut back on multiple cleaning sessions. When washing clothing, try to use a cold or eco cycle where possible and embrace air drying rather than using tumble drying. 

Power down your cooking costs: Cooking strategies can ensure you cut down on costs in your kitchen. Match pots and pans to the correct stove plates, invest in a slow cooker blanket like the Wonderbag to keep food warm, and use your oven's leftover heat. The latter can include drying herbs, warming up bread and biscuits, or creating a meringue. You can also embrace your South African roots and have a braai more often!

Create a draft-free defence: Proper insulation can have a significant effect on heating and cooling your home. Seal any gaps around windows and doors and plug and any cracks or holes in your walls. Besides maintaining a comfortable environment, it will also help you cut back on your reliance on heating and cooling systems.

Cultivate energy-saving habits: You and your family can make simple but impactful changes that can save electricity. By shortening showers, turning off lights when leaving a room, closing curtains to keep the heat in, and washing hands or brushing teeth with cold water, you can reduce your dependence on electricity. 

Your next move can help you save

The features of your home can significantly impact your electricity bill. Those with energy-efficient appliances, proper insulation, and solar power can help you slash your energy consumption and your bills. Let Kellaprince Properties be your guide to finding a home that's kind to your wallet and the environment. View our properties for sale or properties to let and reach out to us today.