With Nersa approving a 12.7% electricity tariff increase for Eskom in 2025/26, South Africans are once again facing rising energy costs. While this increase is lower than Eskom’s original 36% request, it highlights the ongoing financial strain on the energy sector and the growing need for consumers to adopt energy-saving solutions.

To make matters worse, load shedding has returned, with Stage 3 cuts removing up to 3,000 MW from the national grid. Households and businesses are now paying more for electricity while receiving less of it—a frustrating combination that makes energy efficiency more critical than ever.

How Much of Your Electricity Bill Goes to Heating Water?

Did you know that your geyser is the biggest energy consumer in most households?

According to energy efficiency studies, heating water accounts for 30% to 50% of a typical household's electricity bill. This means that as electricity tariffs rise, so do your geyser costs—unless you make a change.

Let us assume that the standard 3kW geyser element runs for approximately 3-5 hours per day, consuming 90-150 kWh per month. At an average electricity cost of R3.50 per kWh, this means you’re spending R315 to R525 per month just to heat water. Over a year, that’s between R3,780 and R6,300 on your geyser alone!

The Hidden Cost of Standard Geyser Elements

Traditional heating elements don’t just use a lot of electricity—they also become less efficient over time due to limescale buildup in hard water areas. This results in:
✅ Higher energy consumption (as the element works harder to heat water)
✅ Reduced heating efficiency (meaning slower water heating)
✅ More frequent replacements (costing time, money, and frustration)

If you live in an area with hard water, standard elements can lose up to 25% efficiency in just a few years—forcing you to spend even more on electricity and replacements.

How XTEND Elements Save You Money

The XTEND energy-efficient ceramic heating element is designed to solve both of these problems—high electricity costs and premature failure in hard water conditions.

XTEND vs Standard Geyser Elements

Key Benefits of Switching to XTEND

✔ Immediate savings – Uses up to 25% less electricity than standard elements
✔ Prevents limescale buildup – Maintains efficiency for the long term
✔ Lasts up to 3X longer – No need for frequent replacements
✔ Perfect for solar PV – Heats water using spare solar power, effectively for free
✔ Pays for itself in under a year – Thanks to lower running costs and less maintenance

How Much Can You Save?

By switching to XTEND, the average household can save up to 1,000 kWh per year, which equals R3,500 in electricity savings annually. That means after just one year, the element has already paid for itself—and continues to save you money for years to come.

Final Thoughts: Invest Now, Save for Years

South Africans can’t control electricity price increases, but we can control how much we use. XTEND elements reduce your electricity bill, cut down on maintenance costs, and work perfectly with solar PV systems—helping you heat water for less.

With electricity tariffs climbing and load shedding making reliable hot water a challenge, there has never been a better time to switch to XTEND and future-proof your home.

💡 Make the smart switch today—your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.

👉 Find your nearest XTEND supplier: https://xtendelements.co.za/where-to-buy/

 As electricity costs soar and the need for sustainability grows, the City of Cape Town has recommended practical ways for households to save energy and reduce costs, including upgrading geyser heating systems with ceramic elements like the XTEND PTC ceramic element. Here’s why this is a game-changer for South Africans.

The Financial Benefits of Ceramic Heating Elements

Did you know that your geyser can be one of the largest contributors to your electricity bill, accounting for up to 40% of household energy consumption? Switching to a ceramic heating element can save approximately 1,000 kWh annually, translating to a yearly saving of around R3,500 at the current average rate of R3.50/kWh in South Africa. Unlike standard resistive elements, ceramic elements operate more efficiently and are designed to last longer, reducing both electricity usage and replacement costs.

How Ceramic Elements Work to Save Energy

Ceramic heating elements use Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) technology. This ensures the element draws only the power needed to maintain temperature, reducing waste. Unlike traditional elements, ceramic units adjust their heating rate as water temperatures rise, which prevents overheating and further conserves energy. Additionally, their robust design makes them resistant to common issues like limescale buildup, ensuring consistent performance and less maintenance.

Optimized for Solar PV Systems

For homes utilizing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, XTEND ceramic elements are ideal. Their low 2 kW power draw makes them compatible with solar setups, allowing excess daytime energy to heat water, effectively turning your geyser into an energy storage unit. This integration helps reduce reliance on grid power during peak hours, offering long-term savings and a greener alternative to conventional heating methods.

Durability and Low Maintenance

Traditional elements often require frequent replacements due to wear, especially in areas with hard water. Ceramic elements, like those offered by XTEND, are built to withstand such conditions. Their self-regulating design prevents burnout and reduces limescale formation, extending their lifespan and minimizing costly repairs or replacements.

A Practical Step Towards Sustainability

By switching to a ceramic heating element, households can play an active role in reducing energy consumption and lowering their carbon footprint. Saving 1,000 kWh annually equates to preventing approximately 1,000 kg of CO2 emissions, making this a small yet impactful step toward addressing South Africa’s energy and environmental challenges.

Conclusion

Investing in a ceramic water heating element isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s about adopting a sustainable, efficient solution that aligns with modern energy-saving strategies. Whether you’re motivated by financial savings, environmental responsibility, or simply the desire for a hassle-free solution, XTEND ceramic elements offer a versatile and forward-thinking option for South African homes.

Make the switch today and enjoy the benefits of energy-efficient water heating!

https://resource.capetown.gov.za/documentcentre/Documents/Procedures,%20guidelines%20and%20regulations/XA_Energy_in_Buildings.pdf

 #heatwaterforless #EnergyEfficiency #PTCCeramic #XTENDElement #GeyserSavings #SouthAfricaEnergy