Winter power usage is putting pressure on household budgets, but small changes and better appliance management could help reduce costs.
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.
