May is National Energy Month in South Africa. This may sound ironic given the numerous power failures and continuous bouts of loadshedding. But there is still an opportunity to be frugal with your electricity. Below are some ways to incorporate frugal power saving tricks this winter to make your home energy-efficient.

Tips to save electricity and money:

1. Take a shower instead of a bath
2. Don’t fill the kettle – only boil the water that you need
3. Switch off all appliances when they are not in use
4. Close all windows and doors when the air conditioner or heater is on
5. Turn the lights off when you leave a room

You find more power saving tips on the SA government’s website.

READ MORE: Next-gen solar panels: Is this how we beat loadshedding?

DebtSafe has also shared some options to survive the heavy loadshedding these cold months.

These are DebtSafe’s best energy saving tips for the winter:

• Don’t overuse energy-hungry appliances: wash full loads of washing when you do your laundry – in cold water – and line dry your clothes instead of using the tumble dryer. Limit your dishwasher usage per week.
• Prepare home-cooked meals: A power-friendly microwave, pressure cooker or air fryer may be energy-saving alternatives to preparing meals. Lower your stove and oven usage by preparing meals simultaneously. Keep the lids on your pots while cooking, and do not use a small pot on a large stove plate.
• Dress for the season: dress warm and snuggly for the winter, wearing many layers. Keep throws and blankets handy, and consume warm drinks and food to keep warm. Even fill a thermos/flask with your hot water to reduce using the kettle.
• Fit power surge protectors: Electrical surges can damage appliances. Fit a power surge protector to avoid (unexpected) costly repairs.

READ MORE: PRIME hydro drink now available at Checkers

DebtSafe says that the best way to start saving on energy is “to get power savvy with how you use electricity”. They advise implementing solutions that fit your lifestyle and pocket to endure loadshedding:

1. Use rechargeable LED lanterns: those ones that switch one during a power failure are great! They are also safer than candles and can charge when the power comes back on. You can also use smaller battery-operated torches to help you make your way around.
2. Charge your phone: Use a power bank or car charger to keep your phone operating during loadshedding.
3. Use a gas stove: If you can afford one, this can be a great solution during loadshedding. You can also buy a camping gas stove which can be better if your budget is tight.
4. Get a generator: This can be expensive, but if you can afford it, a generator is good idea to survive loadshedding. However, you will need to keep those fuel prices in mind. You don’t necessarily need to power your entire house, think powering your fridge or freezer, for example.
5. Speaking of the fridge or freezer: If you can find a dry ice provider, leave a few cubes in your fridge or freezer. You can also take some frozen water-filled plastic bottles and place them in your fridge or freezer until the power comes on.
6. Solar power: There are many solar powered gadgets like phone chargers, lamp, geysers or inverter systems that are available, and range in price to fit your needs and pocket.

READ MORE: Six steps to gain financial freedom