As winter tightens its grip, South African households are feeling the strain of rising electricity costs, with everyday appliances placing increasing pressure on already stretched monthly budgets. According to recent household energy-use insights, the average home can spend approximately R3,794 per month on electricity, driven largely by a handful of high-consumption appliances[1].
At the top of the list is the geyser, which alone accounts for around 240 kWh per month – roughly R840, making it the single biggest electricity expense in most homes. This is followed by heaters (R630/month) and stoves or ovens (R472/month), all of which see increased usage during colder months.
“While electricity tariffs continue to rise, consumption habits during winter often increase at an even faster pace,” says Sherry Sibeko, Executive Head for Personal Lines from Miway Insurance. “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.”
The biggest energy culprits in SA homes
Beyond geysers and heaters, several other appliances quietly contribute to monthly electricity spend:
- Tumble dryers and pool pumps: ~R315/month each
- Airfryers: ~R158/month
- Fridges: ~R140/month
- Washing machines, dishwashers and lighting: ~R105/month each
Collectively, these appliances highlight a key trend: a significant portion of the electricity bill comes from just a few high-use items.
Winter warning: Higher usage, higher risk
As electricity usage ramps up during winter, ensuring that household appliances are both safe and efficient is essential. Homeowners are encouraged to inspect their geysers regularly, as a burst geyser can be both costly and highly disruptive, particularly in colder months when demand is highest and when cold water or damp damages are least welcome. Gas installations should also be carefully checked to ensure they are compliant and serviced by qualified professionals, helping to reduce the risk of leaks or fire hazards. Ensure gas bottles are also well concealed and properly stored to avoid further risks.
Heaters that have been unused for some time should be tested before being switched on, while older appliances require ongoing maintenance to prevent excessive energy consumption and potential safety risks. In addition, fireplaces and chimneys should be serviced, as blockages or damage can lead to dangerous indoor air conditions or increase the likelihood of fire incidents.
Small changes, meaningful savings
While some energy use is unavoidable, small behavioural changes can add up to meaningful savings. Switch off appliances when not in use, reducing both electricity costs and fire risks, and insulate geysers and reduce temperature settings to limit energy consumption. Use appliances efficiently, such as running full washing machine or dishwasher loads and limit heater use by layering clothing and sealing drafts where possible.
“Winter doesn’t just test our budgets, it tests the resilience of our homes,” adds Sherry. “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.”
For households that rely on solar power, ensure these are properly maintained along with any storage. These should also be clearly outlined on your insurance to protect them against damage or theft.
As electricity prices and usage continue to climb, the message is clear: awareness, efficiency, and preventative care are key to navigating the season without unnecessary cost or risk.