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If the past few weeks of rainy weather in Gauteng are anything to go by, many parts of the country are in for an extraordinarily cold winter. In fact, a warning has been issued by the South African Weather Services for disruptive rain this week in five provinces, including Gauteng and Limpopo.
So as we prepare to batten down the hatches for the winter season, here are some tips to prepare your home for inclement weather.
- Clean your gutters and waterproof your roof
Clear the build-up of fallen leaves and other debris that may have collected in your gutters to prevent them from getting clogged up when the rain starts.
“It’s advisable to also get your roof inspected for leaks before the wet weather months,” advises Alen Ribic, Co-founder of SweepSouth, SA’s largest home services platform. “Roof maintenance is vital, as leaks collecting in your ceiling can cause support beams to rot and create unsightly water stains on ceilings,” he adds.
- Set up a home gym
As any fitness fanatic or budding athlete will tell you, the most difficult part of training during winter is having to get up in the mornings when it’s still dark and the wind is howling. “Don’t let the weather scupper your training for Comrades this year,” says Jonathan Hurvitz, CEO of Teljoy. “By renting a treadmill for the next three months, you will be able to stick to your training programme even when there’s a cold front.”
Also, exercise is a great way to manage seasonal affective disorder (SAD); where the change in season can cause depression and lethargy. “Keep the whole family fit and active this winter by investing in home gym equipment, such as the Angry Fit Box Gym, which gives you more than 20 workout functions in one piece of equipment. This way, no one has any excuse to spend the whole day on the couch,” says Hurvitz.
- Keep the lights on
Eskom has forecast at least 61 days of power outages for the next six months; which could leave you in the dark for much of winter. Now is a good time to consider installing a solar and battery system that will store power while the sun is shining, and help keep the lights on when Eskom cannot.
Tim Ohlsen, CEO and founder of Hohm Energy, says: “Installing solar panels on to the roof of a house allows one to convert the energy from the sun into electricity – the same form of power that will keep all the electric appliances working. The battery will store that power for use later, in the evenings and mornings.”
“Batteries have never been more affordable, refined, safe, longer lasting and reliable than they are now. The power from the system will keep the fridge running, allow the lights to continue burning, maintain Wifi connectivity, and ensure that the security features operate fully.” He adds: “It’s best to maintain some grid connectivity that allows you to use power from Eskom if there is heavy cloud cover and the batteries become depleted.”
- Create a cosy nook
With the rising cost of electricity, maintaining a warm house can end up being quite costly. Rather focus on creating a cosy nook in the living room or a part of the home where the family spends most of its time. This space could have an energy-efficient heater, a fireplace and a comfy couch with plush blankets for added warmth.
“When the mercury drops, there’s nothing better than snuggling up on the couch to enjoy a good movie or binge-watch the latest series, “says Hurvitz. “So, including an LED television with good speakers or a soundbar for a cinematic experience will help make this the most popular space in your home this winter. Add a PlayStation or Xbox and you’re sure to keep the whole family entertained in the cold winter months”
- Make small changes for added insulation
While winter is not usually the best time to start renovations, make the most of the last few days of autumn by sealing draughty openings in window frames and doors. “These small fixes will add value to your home and keep you well insulated during winter,” says Carl Coetzee, CEO of BetterBond.
“To retain heat in the home you can also install double-glazed windows and call in the experts to insulate your roof. Bear in mind that 25% of a home’s heat can be lost through the ceiling.” If you already have roof insulation, have it checked for breaks, cracks, tears or other signs of age degradation.
Just a few small tweaks and changes will help keep your family warm and dry as we prepare for what could be the coldest winter in recent history.