Electricity is a necessity, but wasting it can lead to higher bills and unnecessary strain on the power grid. South Africans, like many others, often waste energy without realizing it. By making small changes, you can save money and help reduce load shedding. Here are 10 common ways electricity is wasted and how to fix them.
- Leaving Lights On – Switch off lights when you leave a room to save energy and extend bulb life.
- Using Old Bulbs – Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-saving LEDs to cut electricity use.
- Keeping Electronics Plugged In – Unplug devices when not in use; even on standby, they drain power.
- Running an Empty Freezer – If your extra freezer is empty, switch it off to avoid wasted electricity.
- Opening the Fridge Too Often – Plan ahead and grab what you need quickly to reduce energy loss.
- Half-Full Dishwasher Loads – Run dishwashers only when full to maximize efficiency.
- Washing Clothes in Hot Water – Use cold water instead; it cleans just as well and saves electricity.
- Setting the Geyser Too High – Keep it at 55–60°C to reduce energy consumption.
- Not Using a Smart Thermostat – Adjust heating and cooling settings to avoid unnecessary power use.
- Ignoring Aircon & Heater Filters – Clean or replace filters regularly to maintain efficiency.
Saving electricity doesn’t have to be difficult. Small changes add up to lower bills and a more sustainable home.
Try a few of these tips today!