Eskom offers advice on how to optimise heating, ventilation and air conditioning

The probability of load shedding remains low today as we mark 60 days of only 2 hours and 20 minutes of load shedding. And, since it was stage 1 load shedding, this meant that 96% of South Africans still received uninterrupted electricity supply on that day.

Let’s work together towards achieving more load shedding free days. Customers can do their bit by practicing energy efficiency throughout the day – at the office and at home – and to encourage friends and family to do the same.

Eskom will continue to provide regular updates on the state of the power system through various media platforms.

Tip – In the heat of the moment, optimise heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) with the following ten easy steps

1. Adjust blinds and curtains in rooms that receive direct sunlight. This helps to keep rooms cool and postpone switching on air-conditioners.
2. Close windows while air-conditioners are running.
3. Don’t cool empty space. Only switch on air-conditioners when rooms are occupied.
4. Switch off units 30 minutes before leaving the office.
5. Set air-conditioners’ average temperature in summer at 23°C.
6. Create awareness amongst employees and individuals responsible for the control of HVAC systems that are not controlled via a building management system.
7. Conduct proper maintenance to ensure all HVAC system components are intact and work efficiently, including motors, pumps, fans, compressors, ducting and filters.
8. Consider replacing old systems. New, energy efficient systems offer enhanced control functionality and higher levels of energy efficiency.
9. Use air-conditioner fans to draw in and circulate cool air from outside during early morning hours.
10. Set air-conditioners to circulate cool air instead of drawing in warmer air from the outside.