Refurbished and Second-Hand Geysers: Why the Cheaper Option Could Cost You Far More
Kwikot is urging South African households not to gamble on safety when replacing one of the hardest-working appliances in the home.
With the rising cost of living putting pressure on household budgets, it is completely understandable that South Africans are looking for ways to save. When a geyser fails, the temptation to grab the cheapest replacement, perhaps a refurbished, reconditioned or second-hand unit advertised at a fraction of the price, can be hard to resist.
But when it comes to your geyser, the cheapest option is rarely the safest. Kwikot is warning consumers that buying a refurbished or non-compliant geyser can put your home, your family and your finances at serious risk, and that the short-term saving is simply not worth it.
A Serious Consumer Safety Concern
Kwikot is warning consumers against purchasing refurbished, reconditioned or second-hand geysers, as these products can pose serious risks to homes, families and property.
According to information from the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), inspections conducted across the country have revealed that refurbished geysers do not comply with VC 9006, the compulsory specification for hot water storage tanks.
None of these products carried a valid Letter of Authority (LOA), which is legally required before a product can be traded in the South African market. In other words, these units should never have been offered for sale in the first place.
Why Refurbished Geysers Are Dangerous
A geyser stores a large volume of water under pressure and heats it to high temperatures, day in and day out, often for a decade or more.
When a unit has not been manufactured and certified to the required standard, that everyday duty becomes a genuine hazard.
The sale and use of non-compliant geysers can expose consumers to a range of serious risks, including:
2. Water leaks from the geyser shell — leading to ceiling collapses, damaged property and costly water bills.
3. Acid exposure — some refurbished geysers are acid-washed during reconditioning.
4. Compromised water quality — residual acid can contaminate the hot water your family uses to bath and wash.
5. Electric shock — faulty or tampered electrical components are a direct danger to life.
6. Tampered insulation — reduced or removed insulation increases electricity consumption and pushes up your monthly bills.
The Leaking Shell Problem
In many cases, geysers are replaced precisely because the internal shell has started leaking, often after years of use. Some sellers attempt to repair or re-weld a leaking shell and then return the unit to the market.
Re-welding a leaking geyser does not automatically make it safe to use again.
Before any such product could legitimately be offered to consumers, it would need to undergo full safety testing and comply with every compulsory regulatory requirement, including obtaining a valid Letter of Authority. Refurbished units sold through informal channels almost never meet this bar. To understand the standards a compliant geyser must meet, see our guide to geyser compliance in South Africa.
Kwikot is encouraging homeowners, landlords, contractors, plumbers, insurers and retailers alike to avoid purchasing, installing, selling or recommending refurbished or non-compliant geysers.
“Every South African deserves access to safe, reliable hot water. We understand that consumers are trying to manage household expenses carefully, but buying a refurbished or non-compliant geyser is simply not a risk worth taking. Our priority is to help keep consumers safe and ensure they receive the support, product quality and after-sales assistance they need.”
— Murray Crow, Managing Director, Kwikot
What Consumers Should Look Out For
Be cautious of geysers being sold at unusually low prices, especially through informal channels, online marketplaces or unauthorised sellers. A price that looks too good to be true usually is. Before purchasing a geyser, make sure the product:
• Comes from a trusted retailer or supplier
• Is supported by a recognised manufacturer
• Meets the required South African safety standards
• Has the necessary regulatory approvals, including a valid Letter of Authority
• Is installed by a qualified, registered professional
• Includes proper after-sales support and warranty guidance
“When consumers buy a compliant geyser from a reputable supplier, they are not only buying a product, they are buying peace of mind,” adds Crow. “They have access to proper support, warranties, reliable installation guidance and a product that has been designed and tested to meet required safety standards.”
Don't Forget the Insurance Risk
There is another cost that buyers of refurbished geysers often overlook: your insurance.
A non-compliant installation can give your insurer grounds to reject a claim if that geyser later bursts and damages your home. What felt like a saving of a few hundred rand can turn into a bill for tens of thousands.
Our article on geyser compliance and insurance explains how SANS 10254, Certificates of Compliance and regulatory approvals protect both your home and any future claim.
Choosing a Safe, Compliant Geyser
The good news is that buying safe does not have to mean buying expensive. A new, compliant unit comes with a warranty, proper installation guidance and after-sales support, and there is a Kwikot solution for every home and budget. When you are ready to replace or upgrade, explore the full range of domestic water heaters:
• Electric geysers — dependable, everyday hot water for the majority of South African homes.
• Gas water heaters — on-demand heating that keeps working during load shedding.
• Solar water heating — cut running costs by harnessing the South African sun.
• Heat pumps — energy-efficient hot water that can dramatically reduce electricity usage.
• Point-of-use water heaters — compact units for basins, kitchens and smaller spaces.
Not sure which size or type suits your household? Our geyser sizing guide and the complete geyser guide for South Africans walk you through it, and you can find practical answers in our consumer geyser information and FAQ section.
Kwikot's Commitment to Safer Homes
Kwikot remains committed to supporting South African households with safe, reliable and compliant water-heating solutions. The company urges consumers to seek expert guidance before making a purchase and to use qualified installers when replacing or upgrading their geyser.
As a trusted name in South African water heating since 1903, Kwikot believes that consumer education is essential in helping households avoid unsafe products and make informed decisions that protect their homes, families and finances. You can learn more about Kwikot and our history of innovation.
As a trusted name in South African water heating since 1903, Kwikot believes that consumer education is essential in helping households avoid unsafe products and make informed decisions that protect their homes, families and finances. You can learn more about Kwikot and our history of innovation.
How to Report Refurbished or Non-Compliant Geysers
If you are aware of anyone manufacturing, selling, advertising or installing refurbished or non-compliant geysers, please report it to recon@iopsa.org, copying the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS). Reporting unsafe products helps protect other consumers across the country.
Consumers can also contact Kwikot for guidance on safe and compliant water-heating solutions.