“You Are Great”: SA Reacts to Man Revealing the Monthly Electricity Cost of Running a Wi-Fi Router

• A South African man has calculated the monthly electricity cost of running a Wi-Fi router, revealing how much it adds up to
• According to his calculation, the average router uses 18 watts of power, consuming more than 10 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity over 30 days
• The video has sparked a debate online, with some viewers arguing that the savings from switching off the router at night are worth considering, while others believe the convenience of uninterrupted connectivity is more valuable

The increased cost of living in South Africa continues to paralyse many South Africans, with some unable to make ends meet. One of the most frustrating issues for Mzansi peeps is the electricity price.

Electricity prices in South Africa have significantly increased, with Eskom, the state-owned power utility, implementing a 12.74% tariff hike for direct customers starting April 1, 2025. Municipalities are also raising their electricity prices, with some facing increases of up to 14% from July 1, 2025. These hikes are well above the current inflation rate, putting additional strain on South African households and businesses.

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A South African man has broken down the cost of keeping a Wi-Fi router running all month, and the numbers have sparked interest online.

Man reveals monthly Wi-Fi router electricity costs in SA

In a video posted on Facebook, Wes Reddy explained that while routers may seem like low-energy devices, they do contribute to household electricity bills over time.

According to his calculation, the average router uses about 18 watts of power. Multiplying this by 24 hours a day over 30 days results in a total of 12.96 kilowatt-hours (kWh) consumed each month. At the current estimated electricity rate of R4 per kWh, this adds up to approximately R51.84 per month.

Wes Reddy, who is based in South Africa, noted that while the cost might appear small, it can add up when combined with other household devices running nonstop. He suggested that those looking to save could switch off their routers before going to bed and turn them back on in the morning.

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“If you want to save, switch it off every night before you sleep,” he advised.

The video that was uploaded on 14 August 2025 quickly gained traction, with many viewers debating whether the savings were worth the inconvenience of having to reconnect devices every day. Some argued that R51.84 was a small price to pay for uninterrupted connectivity, especially in households where multiple family members rely on Wi-Fi for work, study, and entertainment. Others welcomed the tip, saying that with the rising cost of living, every bit of saving helps.

Watch the video below:

SA voices their thoughts on the electricity issue

People in South Africa took to the comments section to share their thoughts on the man's insightful findings and the electricity issue in Mzansi.

Prashani Bisseru said:

"How much electricity does an iron use to iron clothes?"

Kumar Perumal added:

"If I switch it off during the night, how will the alarm signal to the control room work, and how cell phone receive messages in case of an emergency?"

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Itumeleng E wrote:

"You are great. We appreciate you, sir. But nobody is switching off the router. Sorry. I love your work though!!!"

Andre Uys replied:

"Invest in a security gate battery and connect to your wifi router overnight."

Thabo Peterson Chilembo stated:

"What are you using your router for if you can afford to even switch it off?"

More stories on electricity by Briefly News

• A South African man has sparked conversation online after breaking down the cost of using an electric blanket, showing just how affordable it can be to stay warm during winter.
• One gent in Mzansi took it upon himself to help folk as he broke down two appliances that use more electricity.
• The cost of living in South Africa continues to rise, and many are struggling to make ends meet. One woman in Mzansi showcased just what life has come to in South Africa, where basic needs are not even affordable.

Source: Briefly News