South African homeowners have faced several challenges in recent years that have and continue to affect their quality of living, from water shortages and rolling blackouts to interest rate hikes and the effects of the pandemic, which have forced us to adapt and usher in new ways of living and working.
As the country's economic growth continues to be stunted by these issues, homeowners are future-proofing their homes, taking measures to ensure that their properties hold value and fetch the best price possible when they opt to sell. In the first part of our series on future-proofing, we’re going to look at loadshedding.
LOADSHEDDING
Unfortunately, loadshedding has become an unavoidable part of our lives, increasing to an unprecedented Stage 6. The following are immediate ways for you to lessen the impact of loadshedding on your life and improve the value of your home.
INSTALL A RELIABLE BACKUP POWER SOURCE
From generators to inverters and power banks, there are portable solutions that keep basic appliances and essentials such as computers, TV, WiFi and lights powered, and devices charged. These lifesaving backup power sources help guarantee that work and life are not impacted too greatly during loadshedding.
UPGRADE TO BATTERY-POWERED LED LIGHTS
Consider switching to globes that are specifically created for loadshedding. These LED lights have a built-in battery that stores energy and reverts to battery power when loadshedding strikes. LED lights also use less electricity, saving you money on your electricity bill in the long run.
USE GAS APPLIANCES
Switching to gas-powered appliances like a gas stove, gas braai and gas heater will ensure that you’re still able to cook, make warm beverages and stay snug on cold nights.
Gas is clean, efficient, and fast becoming the preferred energy source. It is also more cost-effective, with appliances paying for themselves over time due to savings on electricity.
SWITCH TO SOLAR
Installing a solar-powered geyser will help save on electricity costs, especially in summer, and ensure that you have hot water, even when the lights are out. It will save you money and increase your property value, attracting buyers who appreciate its sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
In the next part of our series, we’ll look at water usage efficiency and how to ensure that your home is well-equipped for any interruptions to the city’s water supply.