Is Your Home Ready For Climate Change?
With global warming likely to disrupt weather patterns for the foreseeable future, homeowners are encouraged to prioritise sustainability when buying or upgrading a home.
09/12/2024
Climate change is being felt throughout the country, with snow falls occurring in October and unseasonal rainfall and heat waves becoming increasingly common. “With global warming likely to disrupt weather patterns for the foreseeable future, homeowners are encouraged to prioritise sustainability when buying or upgrading a home,” says Bradd Bendall, BetterBond’s National Head of Sales.
Check for leaks
Dripping taps or leaky toilets waste a lot of water unnecessarily. Find out if there are any leaks in your home by doing an overnight meter test. Check your water meter at night before bed and then again first thing in the morning to see if there has been a change. Signs of a possible leak in the home could be water behind the dishwasher, wet patches in the garden when it has not been raining, and any sound of running or dripping water. Also make sure that your swimming pool is running optimally.
Plant a water-efficient garden
Use mulch to prevent water evaporating from your garden. Rather water your garden early in the morning or later in the evening when it is cooler. Collect rainwater in a rainwater tank for use when conditions are dry or in case water restrictions come into effect. This water can also be used to top up the swimming pool and for other household cleaning. Consider waterwise plants such as aloes, crassulas and geraniums to keep your garden looking beautiful even when conditions are dry.
Smart landscaping
Synthetic lawns are easy to maintain and require no water. Ideal for smaller properties, they can also be used in certain areas of a larger home. If you have a large garden, consider a well-point or borehole that you can use for irrigation. Opt for an automated waterwise irrigation system for days when you have to rely on municipal water. “A home with a lush garden and well-kept swimming pool will appeal to potential buyers when you do decide to sell. Simple changes to the way you use water can add long-term value to your home,” says Bendall.
Shower more, bath less
A bath can use around 90 litres of water, so showering may be more efficient. However, this may only be true if you shower with a low-flow showerhead and you limit your shower time. You can also control water use in the home by changing to low-flow fixtures such as showerheads, toilets and faucets. Most appliances these days are energy-efficient, which will also help to save water and energy.
Solar power
As South Africa has an abundance of sunlight, being able to make the most of solar power in your home can be a cost-effective alternative energy solution. Experts in the solar field say that the amount saved on your electricity bill will cover the cost of the initial installation within five years. Bendall says it's important to work with an accredited solar provider who can assess your home and provide a suitable solution to meet your needs.
Harvest rainwater
You can also save on your water bills each month by harvesting rainwater for use around the home. This could mean collecting rain via roof gutters into a storage tank. The size of the tank can vary depending on space limitations in the home, but it could be possible to save around 5 000 litres of water for domestic use. Greywater systems can also be linked to irrigation systems to help maintain the garden.
Improve energy efficiency
While open plan homes allow for a natural flow of air, they can be more expensive to heat and light. If you are buying a new home, opt for one with defined rooms that will be easier to keep warm. It’s also better for living spaces in a home to be north facing to benefit from light and warmth during the day. Use blockout curtains and blinds to maintain an optimal temperature during summer. Smart home automation also makes it possible to monitor energy consumption.
“Depending on your budget, there are many changes you can make throughout the home to save water, be more energy-efficient and reduce your utility bills,” says Bendall. “Any features that will make it easier for you, and the next owner of your home, to deal with changing weather conditions will add value to your home.”