How to Reduce Your Electricity Bill with Smart DIY Hacks

South Africa’s rising electricity costs and frequent threats of loadshedding make it crucial for households to find ways to reduce their energy use. Fortunately, simple and affordable DIY hacks can help you lower your electricity bill while reducing your dependence on the grid.

Here are some practical strategies tailored to South African homes.

1. Switch to LED Lighting

LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Replacing your home’s bulbs with LEDs can significantly reduce lighting costs. Many retailers across South Africa, from Leroy Merlin to Takealot, offer affordable LED options.

2. Install a Geyser Timer and Blanket

Your geyser is one of the biggest electricity guzzlers in your home. Installing a geyser timer ensures it only heats water when needed, reducing unnecessary energy consumption. Additionally, wrapping your geyser in a geyser blanket helps it retain heat for longer, reducing reheating costs.

3. Use Smart Plugs and Power Strips

Many appliances continue to draw power even when turned off. Smart plugs and power strips allow you to completely cut off electricity to devices when they’re not in use. Consider using these on TVs, gaming consoles, and microwaves to avoid phantom power consumption.

Read our advice blog: How to Make Your Home Smart

4. Maximise Solar Power

Even without installing full solar panels, you can use solar energy to cut electricity costs:

• Invest in a solar-powered geyser to reduce your reliance on Eskom. Find out the price of a solar geyser installation.
• Use solar lights for outdoor areas and garden lighting.
• Charge small devices with a solar power bank.

5. Adjust Fridge and Freezer Settings

Your fridge and freezer run 24/7, making them one of the highest electricity consumers. Optimise efficiency by:

• Keep the fridge temperature at 3-5°C and the freezer at -18°C.
• Ensuring the door seals are tight to prevent cold air from escaping.
• Defrosting regularly to maintain efficiency.

6. Cook Smartly

Traditional ovens consume a lot of electricity. Switch to air fryers, pressure cookers, or induction cookers, which are more energy-efficient. Additionally, batch cooking reduces overall cooking time and electricity use.

7. Use Cold Water for Laundry

Washing clothes in hot water significantly increases electricity usage. Instead, use cold water for most washes and only heat water when necessary. Also, hang clothes to dry instead of using a tumble dryer.

8. Seal Gaps and Improve insulation

Poor insulation leads to heat loss during winter, increasing heating costs. Use weather stripping, draft stoppers, and curtains to trap heat inside and reduce the need for heaters. In summer, keep blinds closed to prevent heat buildup and reduce air-conditioning use.

9. Unplug and Switch Off When Not in Use

Simple habits like turning off lights, unplugging chargers, and switching off unused appliances can significantly reduce electricity costs. Consider making it a household rule!

Read our blog: The Cost to Run a Generator

10. Monitor Your Usage with a Smart Meter

Installing a smart electricity meter or using a prepaid meter can help you track your consumption in real time. You can identify which appliances use the most electricity and adjust accordingly.

With loadshedding and increasing electricity tariffs, being smart about energy use is no longer an option—it’s a necessity.

Applying these simple DIY hacks can reduce your electricity bill, lessen your environmental impact, and become more energy-independent.