If your electricity bill keeps climbing, it is rarely a mystery once you know where to look. Here are the seven most common culprits in South African homes — and how to fix the big ones for good.
1. The geyser (the big one)
Water heating is 30–40% of most bills. A geyser running 24/7, a stuck thermostat heating constantly, or poor insulation all inflate the cost. This is where the savings are — see energy efficiency.
2. A hidden hot-water leak
A leaking hot-water pipe makes the geyser reheat endlessly. You pay for the water and the electricity. Leak detection finds it fast.
3. Old, inefficient appliances
Ageing fridges, pool pumps and tumble dryers draw far more than modern equivalents. The pool pump alone can be a major hidden load.
4. Standby and "vampire" loads
Devices left on standby add up. Switching off at the wall reclaims a surprising amount over a month.
5. Incandescent and halogen lighting
Switching to LED conversion cuts lighting energy by up to 80% and the bulbs last for years.
6. A faulty or constantly-cycling geyser thermostat
A failing thermostat keeps the element on far longer than needed. It is a cheap fix that can dramatically cut the bill — see geyser repairs.
7. Rising tariffs (the case for solar)
Eskom tariffs rise above inflation every year. At some point, generating your own power with solar beats paying ever-higher rates. We will model the payback for your home. Call 082 886 9119.