Here are some useful tips to be prepared for load shedding and also reduce your consumption and save electricity:
▪Turn off unnecessary lights, geysers, pool pumps and all non-essential appliances.
▪Only use what you need – for example, boil only as much water as you need for coffee, rather than a full kettle.
▪Switch on only the lights you need and replace them with energy-saving alternatives such as LED lights.
▪Dry your laundry in the sun instead of a tumble dryer.
▪Make sure your mobile phone, laptop, tablet and radio are always fully charged when power is available. This will allow you to communicate with friends and family during load shedding.
▪Turn off and unplug devices and chargers when not in use.
▪Do not only switch off your electronic devices, but also unplug them. Some appliances such as computers, televisions, DVD players, decoders, sound systems, etc. use power even when you are not using them. Plug out these fixtures for optimal savings.
▪If you do not have a gas stove, prepare meals before the power is scheduled to be switched off. Boil water in your kettle and keep it in thermos flasks for hot drinks.
▪Put lids on pots and pans when you cook.
▪Allow frozen food to defrost completely and allow hot food to cool completely before putting it in the fridge.
▪Reduce toilet flushing to help avoid sewer overflows if pump stations are without power for a long time.
▪Keep some cash on you as ATMs cannot operate without electricity.
▪Keep fuel in the vehicle’s tank.
▪Lower geyser temperature to 60 degrees and use it only for one or two hours a day.
▪Keep gas lights, battery-powered torches, and candles for easy use.
▪Check that backup batteries for electric gates, garage doors and security systems are working and will last through load shedding.
▪Beware of higher fire risks due to alternative methods of lighting and cooking.
VERY IMPORTANT: Switch off electrical appliances / devices during power outages, including load shedding, to avoid power surges and prolonged outages when power is restored. Use only essential devices when power is restored after load shedding to reduce the risk of overloading the electrical network. Consumers are requested, where possible, not to switch on appliances such as stoves and kettles for at least 30 minutes after load shedding.
