Global Courant
South Africa sees a significant increase in geyser-related insurance claims during the winter.
Despite Eskom improving its generating capacity somewhat in recent weeks, winter is still generally described as dark and cold – loss of load or not.
According to Budget Insurance, geyser claims increase about 30% or more in the winter.
In addition, 98% of these claims are due to burst or overflowing geysers, faulty pipes or faulty equipment.
“Expansion and contraction of the geyser tank and its components occur during normal operation as hot water exits the geyser and is replaced by cold water,” said Tyrone Lowther, head of Budget Insurance.
“In winter, however, the temperature difference between the cold water entering the geyser and the warm water leaving the geyser is much greater than in summer. This increases the rate of expansion and contraction, which can lead to geyser failure, especially if the geyser is older or if the valves or thermostat are faulty.”
Budget insurance offered South Africans the following tips to protect their geysers:
Top Shape: Experts recommend that geysers be serviced every three years by a qualified plumber. A geyser service includes draining and checking the components, including the anode, element, and thermostat. Scale and sludge must be removed from the tank and element and the entire system checked for leaks. The plumber should also check that the thermostat temperature on the geyser is not set too high. 600C is the recommended temperature. Geysers are known to burst when the thermostat is set incorrectly or poorly regulated. Wrap it in a blanket: Consider investing in a geyser blanket and timer to conserve electricity and prevent a geyser from bursting due to extreme fluctuations in heating and cooling. Provide a drip tray: It is recommended that you install a drip tray if it is not already there under the geyser. The drain line on a drip tray drains most of the water if the geyser bursts, making it a useful measure for limiting water damage to walls, carpets, and other furnishings. Save wisely: It’s wise to turn off your geyser from time to time, especially during periods of peak electricity demand, but it’s best not to let it get cold as this extra contraction-expansion cycle can shorten the life of your geyser, while also using more electricity to heat up the water again. Heed the warning: watch out for the early warning signs of geyser malfunctions. If you notice that the water coming out of the geyser is not as hot as it used to be, that the water pressure is not high enough, that too much water or steam is coming out of the hot water overflow pipe on your roof, that the geyser is making strange humming , makes hissing or creaking noises, or you notice wet spots near the geyser, disaster could be just around the corner and should be inspected immediately. Quick Hand: If your water heater bursts, turn off the power line immediately, turn off the water supply, and call your plumber and insurer.
Read: Warning about health insurance in South Africa
Warning on South Africa’s largest winter insurance claim – BusinessTech
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