Winter power usage is putting pressure on household budgets, but small changes and better appliance management could help reduce costs.
Image: Matthews Baloyi / File.
As winter temperatures fall across South Africa, households are feeling the impact not only from colder weather but also from rising electricity costs, with energy hungry appliances driving monthly bills higher.
Recent household energy use insights showed that the average South African home can spend approximately R3,794 per month on electricity, with a small number of high consumption appliances accounting for a significant portion of the cost.
The geyser remains the biggest contributor, using around 240 kWh per month at an estimated cost of R840. It is followed by heaters at around R630 per month and stoves and ovens at approximately R472 per month as families increase usage to stay warm during colder conditions.
Sherry Sibeko, Executive Head for Personal Lines at MiWay Insurance, said winter often creates a double challenge for households as higher electricity tariffs combine with increased consumption.
“While electricity tariffs continue to rise, consumption habits during winter often increase at an even faster pace,” Sibeko said.
“Understanding where your power is going is the first step to managing your costs more effectively and reducing risks in your home at the same time.”
Beyond geysers, heaters and cooking appliances, other household items also contribute to electricity costs.
Tumble dryers and pool pumps can each add around R315 per month to electricity bills, while air fryers account for approximately R158. Refrigerators contribute around R140, while washing machines, dishwashers and lighting each add about R105 per month.
The figures highlight how a few frequently used appliances can have a major impact on household spending, particularly during winter when demand increases.
For many households, managing electricity usage is not only about reducing costs but also about improving safety.
MiWay warned that increased winter usage places additional pressure on household appliances, making regular maintenance essential. Geysers should be inspected regularly, as burst geysers can cause significant damage and disruption, especially during colder months.
Gas appliances should also be checked to ensure they are compliant and serviced by qualified professionals, reducing the risk of leaks or fires. Gas bottles should be stored safely and away from potential hazards.
Heaters that have been unused for months should be tested before use, while older appliances require maintenance to prevent unnecessary energy consumption and reduce safety risks.
Fireplaces and chimneys should also be serviced, as blockages or damage can create dangerous indoor air conditions and increase the risk of fire incidents.
While some electricity usage is unavoidable during winter, Sibeko said small behavioural changes can make a meaningful difference.
“Winter doesn’t just test our budgets, it tests the resilience of our homes,” Sibeko said.
“By staying proactive with maintenance and mindful about consumption, households can better protect both their finances and their safety, particularly as maintenance is generally a prerequisite for insurance cover.”
Simple measures such as switching off appliances when they are not in use, insulating geysers, lowering geyser temperature settings, running washing machines and dishwashers only when full, and reducing reliance on heaters where possible can help lower monthly costs.
Households using solar systems are also encouraged to maintain their equipment and ensure these assets are included in insurance policies to protect against possible damage or theft.
With electricity prices continuing to rise and winter demand placing additional pressure on households, awareness and preventative care remain key tools for consumers trying to manage costs while keeping their homes safe.
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