A geyser is a pressurised water heating tank that stores and heats water for domestic or commercial use. Most South African homes use an electric resistance geyser — a steel tank with a heating element, thermostat, pressure control valve, and temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve).
The geyser receives cold water from the municipal supply, heats it to a set temperature (typically 60°C–65°C), and stores it under pressure until needed. When a hot tap is opened, pressurised hot water flows out and cold water enters to replace it.
Caused by: grease and fat buildup, food particles, soap scum accumulation over time. Grease is the number one cause of kitchen drain blockages — it coats the inside of pipes and builds up until the pipe is completely blocked.
Caused by: hair accumulation, soap scum, toothpaste residue, and small foreign objects. Hair combined with soap creates a dense mat that completely blocks drain pipes.
Caused by: excessive toilet paper, wet wipes (even those labelled flushable), sanitary products, nappies, paper towels, and foreign objects. Toilets are designed for human waste and toilet paper only.
Caused by: leaves, dirt, sand, and debris accumulation. In heavy rain a blocked stormwater drain causes immediate flooding.
Caused by: accumulated waste buildup, tree root intrusion, collapsed pipes, or foreign objects. A blocked sewer line affects every drain in the property and causes sewage overflow — this is a health emergency.
Caused by: bird nests, debris, or dead animals blocking the roof vent pipes. This causes slow draining and gurgling sounds throughout the system.
Water draining slowly from sinks, baths, or showers
Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets
Foul smell coming from drains
Toilet water rising higher than normal when flushed
Multiple fixtures blocked at the same time (indicates main sewer blockage)
Water backing up into other fixtures when you flush or drain
Sewage smell outside near drain inspection points
Wet or sunken patches in the garden above sewer lines
Popping or rumbling sounds indicate sediment buildup on the heating element. This reduces efficiency and shortens element life.
Popping or rumbling sounds indicate sediment buildup on the heating element. This reduces efficiency and shortens element life.
Caused by: failed element with earth fault, wiring fault, or moisture ingress into the electrical connections.
All new geyser installations in South Africa must comply with SANS 10252 and SANS 10254 standards. This includes:
We supply and install all major geyser brands including Kwikot, Franke, Ariston, and Chromagen. We also install heat pump geysers and solar geyser systems. Important: Your home insurance policy requires a valid COC for your geyser. An installation without a COC may void your insurance claim in the event of a burst or water damage.
Proper maintenance extends your geyser lifespan and prevents costly emergencies.
Lift the lever on the T&P valve briefly to confirm it opens and reseats correctly. If it drips continuously after testing, replace it immediately.
The anode rod protects the tank interior from corrosion. When it is depleted the tank corrodes rapidly. Replacement is inexpensive compared to a new geyser.
Install a pressure gauge on your system. Pressure above 400kPa accelerates wear on all geyser components. Install a PRV if pressure is excessive.
A geyser blanket reduces heat loss and electricity consumption. Insulating hot water pipes reduces the time to get hot water at the tap.
The recommended thermostat setting is 60°C. This is hot enough to kill legionella bacteria but not so high that it accelerates scale buildup and element wear.
The average South African geyser lasts 8–12 years. If yours is approaching this age, plan a replacement before it fails — a planned installation is significantly cheaper than an emergency replacement with ceiling repairs.
Have a PIRB-registered plumber inspect your geyser annually — checking pressure, valve condition, element performance, and overall tank condition.
Install a pressure reducing valve if not already fitted
never ignore a constant dripping overflow pipe
Replace aging geysers before they fail
Ensure your geyser has a complaint drip tray and drain
Ensure your geyser COC is current and valid
Available 24/7 — For geyser repair
PIRB-registered plumbers
Supply and installation of all major brands
All work guaranteed
COC certificates issued where required