Why LPG Gas Geysers Beat Electric Geysers in South Africa
Thinking about your next geyser? Here’s why you should ditch the electric and go for an LPG gas geyser—especially if you want to save money, survive winter, and keep the hot water flowing during load shedding.
1. Cost Savings That Add Up
Electricity prices in South Africa are skyrocketing. Heating water with an electric geyser can cost you around R891 per month for a typical family. Gas geysers, on the other hand, will only set you back about R648 per month for the same hot water use—saving you nearly 30% every month. Over a year, that’s a serious chunk of change back in your pocket.
2. Hot Water, Even During Load Shedding
We all know the pain of rolling blackouts. With an electric geyser, no power means no hot water. Gas geysers don’t care about Eskom—they’ll deliver piping hot water even when the lights go out. That’s a game-changer for winter mornings and late-night showers.
3. Instant Heat, Less Waste
Gas geysers heat water on demand. That means you’re not paying to keep a massive tank of water hot all day. Flip the tap, and you’ve got instant hot water—no waiting, no waste. Electric geysers, in contrast, keep reheating water, burning through your electricity budget.
4. Compact and Flexible
While electric geysers are usually more compact, modern gas geysers aren’t far behind. Yes, you’ll need space for a gas cylinder and good ventilation, but you’re not tied to the grid or limited by where you can install26. For homes with tricky layouts or limited electrical supply, gas is a smart fit.
5. Winter-Proof Your Home
South African winters can be brutal, and nothing beats a hot shower when it’s cold. Gas geysers heat water faster—up to three times quicker than electric models—so you’ll never be left shivering while you wait for the tank to warm up62.
6. Beat the “Comeback Load” Trap
After load shedding, everyone’s electric geysers kick in at once, smashing the grid with high demand and pushing up your municipality’s energy bills4. Gas geysers sidestep this problem completely, helping keep your costs and the grid under control.
Quick Comparison Table
Feature
LPG Gas Geyser
Electric Geyser
Monthly Running Cost
R648
R891
Works During Blackouts
Yes
No
Heats Water
Instantly (on demand)
Slowly (storage tank)
Installation
Needs gas, ventilation
Simpler, grid only
Winter Performance
Fast, reliable
Slower, grid-dependent
The Bottom Line
If you want to save money, stay warm in winter, and never worry about load shedding ruining your hot shower, LPG gas geysers are the clear winner for South African homes. Just make sure you use a certified installer and follow safety guidelines for peace of mind.
Switch smart, save cash, and stay warm—go gas!