What You Need to Know About Electrical Geysers
In general, electrical water heating accounts for 25-40% of your overall electricity bill.
How Electric Geysers Work
Electric geysers use an element to heat water stored in a tank, keeping it at a set temperature until needed. A thermostat controls the heating process, helping conserve energy by maintaining water temperature between 48°C and 60°C, which prevents overheating and optimizes energy use.
Top Three Geyser Brands in South Africa
In South Africa, the main brands for electric water heaters are Kwikot, Heat Tech, and Plumb-pride (available at Builders Warehouse). All these brands are compatible with solar collectors or heat pumps.
Choosing the Right Geyser Size for Your Household
Geyser sizes in South Africa range from 50L to 300L. The 150L geyser is most popular, typically serving three people with average water usage, while a 200L geyser suits four people. A general guideline is to allow 50L per person. Over-sizing can lead to higher electricity costs, as the system constantly heats water to the thermostat’s highest setting.
Understanding Geyser Warranties
The three main geyser brands come with a five-year warranty, which manufacturers will honor only if installation complies with geyser installation regulations.
Why Use a Qualified Plumber for Geyser Installation
Hiring a qualified plumber ensures proper installation, protecting your warranty. An unqualified plumber may skip steps like installing a drip tray and a drain pipe to carry water outside if the geyser bursts. This oversight can lead to damage to your ceiling, cupboards, and carpet.
How to File a Geyser Warranty Claim in South Africa
If your geyser is under warranty, contact the manufacturer to replace it. If out of warranty, you are responsible for replacement unless insured. Insurers can send a team to replace the geyser, or you can hire your plumber and claim the cost. Keep a separate record of the warranty slip (ask your plumber to provide a picture), including the serial number, model, capacity, and purchase date.
Warranty Slip
Common Maintenance Issues with Geysers and How to Spot Them
No Hot Water
This could indicate a faulty heating element or an electrical issue preventing power from reaching the element.
Geyser Tripping Electricity
The element may be faulty, often due to a worn flange gasket (the seal for the element), causing water to leak onto the element and damage it.
Why is My Geyser Leaking? Top Reasons and Solutions
Common causes for geyser leaks (other than pipes) include:
- A malfunctioning thermostat, causing the safety valve to release water.
- A bursting geyser, which releases water when it fails.
Most geyser maintenance issues stem from problems with the element or thermostat.
How to Lower Your Electricity Bills by Optimizing Geyser Usage
Here are some ways to reduce electricity bills associated with geyser use:
- Install a timer to heat water only when necessary, though this may occasionally leave you without hot water.
- Connect the geyser to a solar collector to heat water using solar energy.
- Connect the geyser to a heat pump as an alternative to solar, which also conserves energy.
Contact a Professional Plumber
If you encounter any of these issues, contact a professional plumber. For geyser installation or repair, reach out to Superquick Plumbing and Electrical. Visit www.superkwik.co.za, email info@superkwik.co.za, or phone/WhatsApp 0734247271.