Energy saving tip when using a kettle and small appliances
Updated | By The Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp/Udesha Moodley-Judhoo
If you haven’t noticed how much power your kettle (or other small appliances) uses, it’s time to take note.

It might not seem like it, but changing how you use your home appliances could help you save money on your monthly energy bill.
For example, while most of us have basic kitchen appliances like a kettle, toaster, microwave, and fridge, the way we use them can vary significantly.
Smaller appliances like toasters, kettles, or microwaves typically have higher wattage, allowing them to heat quickly, but they're used for shorter periods.
In contrast, larger appliances, like refrigerators, washing machines and freezers, tend to have lower wattage but run for much longer, making them bigger energy consumers.
Smaller appliances typically cost less to run in terms of energy and money, depending on how they’re used. For instance, we've learnt that using a kettle more efficiently can save you money.
When comparing smaller appliances to larger ones, it's like comparing chalk and cheese; each serves a different purpose. Instead of making the comparison, why not focus on using each appliance, like a kettle, in the most energy-efficient way possible?
Renewable energy specialist DJ Wes Reddy shared a simple saving tip that could make a significant difference to your energy bill.
He explained that boiling a full kettle takes around six minutes, while boiling only two cups of water takes just two minutes.
"Energy is used with power over time, so if you boil the full kettle and only use two cups and then boil again later, that is a waste," said Reddy.
Watch the video below where he explains it – courtesty of TikTok
@djwesreddy Energy saving with your kettle. #EnergySaving #SaveEnergy #EnergyTips #GoGreen #SustainableLiving #EcoFriendly #ClimateAction #GreenTips #Sustainability #DidYouKnow #LifeHacks #TikTokTips #HomeHacks #SmartLiving #DIYTips #ReduceReuseRecycle #SouthAfricaEnergy #SmartHomeSA #EcoSouthAfrica #GreenSA #SmartMeterTips ♬ original sound - Dj Wes Reddy
Tune in to the 'Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp', weekdays from 09:00 – 12:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.
Listen to Jacaranda FM:
- 94.2
- Jacaranda FM App
- http://jacarandafm.com
- DStv 858/ OpenView 602
Image courtesy iStock
Show's Stories
-
4 truths all parents should acknowledge
These parenting truths aren't shared to make you feel bad or guilty, but...
The Workzone with Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp 14 hours ago -
Traditional ironing in Egypt doesn't seem that sanitary
A real-life "ironing" man uses his mouth and some water to perform the s...
The Workzone with Alex Jay 14 hours ago