Each energy source has its pros and cons, especially when it comes to running geysers, heating, cooking, and general household use.

Electricity

The most commonly available energy source in South Africa.

Can power all household appliances, including traditional electric geysers.

Downside: Electricity costs are rising, and power supply has become unreliable due to load shedding.

Electric geysers are typically the least energy-efficient and most expensive to run long-term.

Gas (LP Gas or Natural Gas)

LP Gas is cheaper than electricity and produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Ideal for gas geysers, room heating, and gas cooking.

Gas appliances are highly energy-efficient and usually pay for themselves through electricity savings in a relatively short period.

Natural/piped gas is limited in availability, mainly to certain city areas.

Gas geysers heat water instantly and only use gas when hot water is being used, making them extremely cost-effective.

Gas Geysers (Forced Fan) can run inline with a solar geyser, as a back-up for when the solar geyser is insufficient eg cloudy weather or high hot water demand at night.

Solar Energy

A clean, renewable, environmentally friendly energy source.

Can supplement or completely replace electric or gas water heating.

Solar hot water systems often provide 50–90% of a home’s hot water needs.

Downside: High upfront installation cost, weather-dependent, and not suitable for all properties.

Best viewed as a long-term investment, not a quick cost-saving solution.