South African summers are basically a free sauna, especially the more humid areas (we’re looking at you, KZN). Wait, did we say free? Well, if you’re plugging in and turning on every cooling appliance and device at your disposal, you’ll probably find that you have quite the steep electricity bill to pay.
But what’s a person to do? If your home feels like a toaster on high, then are you supposed to suffer and sweat? You might be tempted when you see your meter ticking like a heart monitor after a sprint. If that sounds like you, it’s time to take control.
The good news? Staying cool doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet on aircon or endless fans.
Find the heat source (and stop it)
Most of the heat in your home isn’t just coming from the blazing sun outside. Windows, roofs, and even your appliances could be the sneaky culprits. Seriously. Even your kettle could be working against your efforts to stay cool, to say nothing of your oven, which may as well be a personal sauna generator.
A few simple tricks can make a noticeable difference:
- Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day.
- Install reflective window film or heat‑blocking blinds.
- Cook early or stick to no‑cook meals in peak heat.
Even small adjustments can keep your home cooler without relying solely on electricity.
Fans are lowkey your BFFs
While fans do use electricity, they are cheap, effective, and surprisingly heroic. Ceiling fans, tower fans, or even a couple of well-placed portable fans can make a big difference. Pro tip: position a bowl of ice in front of a fan for instant DIY aircon vibes.
And remember, fans cool people, not rooms, so turn them off when no 1 is around. Otherwise, you’re just circulating hot air.
Aircon smarts
Air conditioners are glorious… But expensive. If you can’t live without cranking the AC, then there are a few tips that will help keep the impact on your power bill to a minimum.
Tips to keep the bill down:
- Set temperatures between 23–25°C for efficiency.
- Clean filters regularly because a clogged filter is basically a sweat lodge.
- Use timers or smart plugs to avoid running AC all day when no 1 is home.
Sure, these are only 3 little changes, but you’d be surprised how a little planning goes a long way and can save hundreds on your electricity bill each summer.
The hidden cooler
Your roof can be a massive heat trap, so while you might think that insulation is just for winter, think again. This installation does a lot to keep hot air out during the warmer summer months. If you’ve been postponing roof or ceiling insulation, consider it a long-term energy investment that’s totally worth it. And while you’re investing, consider painting your roof white or with a reflective paint as this can also help bounce some of that merciless sun away.
Small lifestyle tweaks add
There are a few tiny tweaks which will help you keep cool (and pay less), especially when combined with our other tips. Trust us, your wallet will thank you.
A few changes you can make:
- Avoid running the dryer in peak hours
- Hang clothes outside instead of tumble drying
- Limit hot showers during mid-afternoon heat
The king’s final word
Keeping your home cool in South Africa’s summer doesn’t have to mean massive bills or a meltdown. With strategic blinds, clever fan placement, efficient aircon use, and a few lifestyle hacks, you can survive the heat without sacrificing comfort or your budget.
You can quite easily turn your home into a haven, not a roast, and your electricity meter doesn’t have to feel like it’s running a marathon. And don’t forget that the king’s home insurance and tips are here to help protect your castle while staying cool.
Curious about our royal home insurance options? WhatsApp us on 0860 50 50 50 or click here for a commitment-free quote.
FAQs
1. Can I get discounts for safety features in my home?
Absolutely. King Price offers premium reductions if your home has burglar alarms, and you can chat about the impact that the presence smoke detectors have on your premiums.
2. Does my policy cover contents if I leave them in a hot car?
King Price home insurance covers your home contents, but items left in vehicles may require separate cover. Check the policy wording or add optional portable possessions cover if needed.
3. Can I adjust my home insurance cover seasonally?
Yes, King Price allows you to review and adjust your cover to match your current needs, which can help save on premiums.
4. How quickly can I make a claim if heat causes damage?
Claims can be submitted online or via the King Price app, with fast turnaround times and support from their claims team.