Culture Craze
How Much It Costs to Charge Your Phone in South Africa
No, your teenager’s daily charging habit isn’t wrecking your electricity bill.
In a city where every kilowatt counts, many Joburgers are cutting back wherever they can, unplugging appliances, switching to LED lights, or shouting “Who left the geyser on again?” across the house. But what about smartphones? With devices plugged in daily, even overnight, is it costing you more than you realise?
Turns out, the damage is barely noticeable.
The Surprising Truth About Charging Costs
According to renewable energy specialist Wes Reddy, charging a smartphone once a day for an hour only costs around R3.60 per month.
That’s not a typo. Whether you’re on Team iPhone or Android, your phone is probably one of the cheapest things in your home to power.
Compared to energy-hungry appliances like heaters, geysers, or tumble dryers, your mobile phone is a lightweight, more of a budgeting myth than a threat.
@djwesreddy Cost per month to charge your phone #PhoneChargingCost #ElectricitySavings #EnergyTips #SouthAfricaPower #SaveElectricity #TechTips #HomeEnergy #EnergyAwareness #SmartLiving #TikTokEducation #SAcontent #MoneySavingTips #energysaving
Is Overcharging Hurting Your Wallet?
From TikTok teens to WhatsApp aunties, most South Africans plug in more than once a day, sometimes all night. While that’s not ideal for battery health, the cost to your electricity bill remains minor.
The real issue? Over time, constant partial charging can reduce your battery’s performance and longevity. Financially though, it’s not worth fretting over.
Social Reactions: “We’re Fighting Over Plugs for R3?”
On X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, many South Africans reacted with surprise and a touch of humour.
“I’ve been unplugging everything at night. Meanwhile, my phone’s costing me less than a loaf of bread,”
wrote one user.“We’re fighting over plugs and it’s only R3? I’m charging my tablet too!”
another joked.
In an environment where Eskom issues, prepaid anxiety, and high tariffs dominate household stress, this small number is offering some much-needed comic relief.
Should You Still Watch Your Usage?
Absolutely, but not because of your phone. If you’re looking to lower your electricity bill, focus on the real energy culprits: water heaters, old fridges, electric stoves, and heat pumps.
Phone charging, on the other hand? Go ahead. Plug it in. The meter won’t flinch.
Also read: “Why Does South Africa Have KFC?,” IShowSpeed’s Viral Reaction Sparks Global Giggles and a Serious Reminder
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Source: The South African
Featured Image: Pexels
