Cut down your municipal bill - and increase property values

From July, economists predict households will experience electricity and water tariff increases. Before you panic, there's a lot you can do to reduce your municipal bill. In fact, these changes can even make your property more attractive for buyers and renters. De Lucia Group explores the green measures you can take in and around your home.

Electricity-saving tips

The trick with making your home energy efficient is to start small and work your way up to more expensive changes. 

Play around with walls and windows: Letting in as much natural light as possible can keep the lights off for longer. Adding mirrors strategically, enlarging windows, or replacing walls with glass blocks can make a difference. The extra light also has the benefit of making your home feel spacious and inviting. 

Seal all cracks and holes: Doors, windows, and walls with cracks and holes let out air. If you're heating or cooling your home, this can hamper your efforts. Caulking gaps can keep temperatures pleasant, while also making your home more physically appealing. 

Choose energy-efficient lighting: Forget about incandescent lights; compact fluorescent or CFL (energy saving) and light emitting diodes (LEDs) should be your top choice. Not only will they save money in the long run by lasting longer, but they also cast an arguably better glow. Couple your lighting with motion sensors in areas with low-to-medium traffic. 

Get a prepaid electricity meter: Installing an electricity meter lets you measure and monitor your electricity consumption on a daily basis. This insight helps you adjust your use accordingly. Prepaid electricity meters have become very popular in rental properties, in particular, for those who want to keep track of their finances. 

Switch to electricity-saving appliances: The appliances you've chosen for affordability could be making their presence felt on your municipal bill. These may not be energy efficient, especially as they get older. Swap to newer models using information from the South African Energy Efficiency Label. The bonus for your property is that quality built-in appliances will make your home modern and bump up its value. 

Opt for solar power where possible: Adding PV panels to your home are costly, but it can really whittle down electricity consumption. It can heat up water as well as run your electrical system - a plus during load shedding. If you're looking to sell or let out your property, be sure to market your solar investment. They can catch the eye of buyers who appreciate clean living and the chance to save money on energy costs. 

Water-saving tips

The less water you use, the more you save. Water conservation is good for your budget and also helps your home overcome water restrictions. 

Update your bathroom fittings: Your bathroom is one of the biggest areas of water loss. Swap out showerheads for low-flow models that use less water, install shower timers to curtail wash times, and eco taps that maximise your use. These physical changes will also uplift your bathroom aesthetically. 

Fix leaks in and around the property: Not only are leaks water wasters, but they are also unsightly, cause damage to possessions, and can become a safety risk. Keep an eye on your water meter - this will help you pick up any rise in water usage from a leak. Also, look around your home for leaking taps, pipes, or toilets. There are plenty of how-to guides online, but you can always call in a professional to assist. 

Add a geyser blanket: This is an additional layer of insulation designed to be wrapped around the geyser. The benefit is that it keeps water in your geyser warmer for longer, saving you up to 20% of your reheating costs. Geyser blankets are relatively inexpensive and are easy to install. 

Collect rainwater where possible: Rainwater can be used to irrigate your garden and top up pools and water features; all of which have a direct impact on property values. They can also prevent flooding and soil erosion. In South Africa, this is typically drawn from a gutter and stored in a collection tank.

Get a dishwasher: No one can dispute the perks of a dishwasher in cleaning dishes effectively and taking the stress off your hands. The right model can even save water in your kitchen. Be sure to check the energy rating and look for wash cycle options to match the number of dishes. 

Waterproof your garden: A lawn and garden can be a drain on precious water resources. However, you can make smart changes while still keeping your property pretty. Artificial lawns stay green all year round without watering. Using indigenous plants that are adapted to the environment can reduce the amount of water needed. You can also install a smart sprinkler system that waters efficiently by factoring in the soil type, slope, and local weather patterns. 

Go green and reap the rewards

De Lucia Group are full-service property professionals who can help you make the most of your property investment. We can show you the green steps you can take to enhance your property for potential buyers and renters. Our property management services put you in touch with a network of service providers who can get the job done right. We can also market the green measures taken in our listings, and social media advertising. To get started, send a message to De Lucia Group, call Michael De Lucia directly on 082 493 1089, or email michaeldl@delucia.co.za.

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