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Frequently Asked Questions

I already have a geyser control device. Why do I need a new one?

The Metro has one of the biggest geyser control systems in the country, with about 110,000 Ripple Relays installed at residents’ homes. This system needs to be upgraded and improved in order to cope with loadshedding and new grid requirements. If you already have a geyser control device it will be replaced with a modern state of the art Tjommie device.

How does the Tjommie system operate?

A Tjommie (a small hardware device) is installed next to or inside the electrical distribution panel in your home. The Tjommie is smart – its smart algorithms can determine how warm or cold your geyser is and whether it could be switched off to reduce the Metro’s electricity demand (when needed), without resulting in cold water. When the country requires a reduction in load, those geysers that can be switched off without causing cold water, will be switched off remotely until the peak demand period passes.

Will the Tjommie system affect my hot water supply?

Consumers should not experience any inconvenience, provided that the geyser is in good working order and has not been fitted with a timer device by the resident.

What are the benefits of Tjommie for Nelson Mandela Bay residents?

Firstly, the improved management of the grid infrastructure contributes towards combatting loadshedding and should result in the containment of annual electricity price increases.

Secondly, you will be able to download the Tjommie app by scanning the QR code located on the face of your Tjommie device. The app will provide you with useful information about the performance of your geyser and will alert you if your geyser is running sub-optimally and as such is using more electricity than what it should, as well as notify you if the Tjommie detects a potential geyser leak.

How will the Tjommie installations be carried out?

Tjommie installers are selected and screened using rigorous background checks, and only the best installers are trained to become certified installers
Only Tjommie trained, certified and approved installers are allowed to install Tjommies
The installer will be clearly identifiable by the Tjommie branded clothing and ID Cards. Any end user customer will also be able to independently verify an installer here or by phoning the call centre to verify that the named installer is assigned to perform the specific installation.
Appointments to install will be made with each end user customer directly. Customers will be able to contact the call centre to arrange an installation date themselves, but they will also be contacted by the call centre and by the ‘runners’ who will be knocking door-to-door to arrange installations.
The installation/inspection takes approximately 30 minutes and will be at no cost to the consumer.

Who bears the cost of the Tjommie?

This initiative is funded by Eskom.

How long does it take to install the Tjommie?

The installation takes 20 to 30 minutes.

Will the installation team need access to my home?

Residents are kindly requested to allow the Tjommie team to enter their homes in order to install Tjommies. The members of the team can be identified by means of the identity cards issued to them by Eskom and the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. Please do not allow anyone without this identity card to enter your home: Residents will receive a circular and a “confirmation of appointment” card approximately one week prior to the date of actual installation. An Artisan will follow up the installation to verify and certify the installation procedure.

You can also independently verify the installers by going onto www.mytjom.com where you will find the list of qualified installers, together with their photos for identification.

Is a Tjommie necessary for homes with solar heating systems?

No – unless the solar heating system is also connected to the electricity supply, in which case a Tjommie will be installed.

Do I need a Tjommie if I have Solar PV on my roof?

Yes. The NMBM still needs to be able to reduce electricity consumption, and as such, any reliance that there might be on the grid network during such times it is required, irrespective of whether you have a Solar system or not.

Is electricity wasted when water is re-heated?

Normally the heating of the water in a geyser is controlled by a thermostat – which constantly switches the heating element on and off, depending on the volume of water that has to be heated. The Tjommie switches on and off far less frequently, with the result that no energy is wasted. Please note that the thermostat of your geyser will not be replaced or removed.

How can I access the Tjommie app, and what are the benefits?

To download the app, simply use your smartphone’s camera to scan the QR code that is located on the face of the Tjommie. You will then be prompted to download the app.

Can I choose not to have a Tjommie installed in my home?

According to the bylaw a Tjommie device cannot be refused.

The National Regulation 773 states that “where an electric water heating facility is required – a [Municipality] should install a facility to remotely control the supply of electricity to any electric geyser.”

The Nelson Mandela Bay Metro Electricity by-law in turn states that “At times of peak load, or in an emergency, or when, in the opinion of the Engineer, it is necessary for any reason to reduce the load on its electricity supply system, the Council may without notice interrupt and, for such period as the Engineer may deem necessary, discontinue the supply of electricity to the whole or part of any consumer’s installation. The Council may, at its own cost and expense, install upon the premises of the consumer such apparatus and equipment as may be necessary to give effect to any provision of this by-law.”

What are the consequences of refusing a Tjommie installation?

The Metro will be required to suspend or could disconnect your electricity supply and could also issue you with a fine.

Still have questions?

Contact Support

The Tjommie app allows users to monitor their geyser’s thermostat status, receive notifications about switching schedules, view terms and conditions, get alerts on potential faults, and communicate with the Tjommie support team for any concerns or issues.

0860 376 626
help@mytjom.com

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