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Six Reasons Why More Hospitality Businesses Are Switching to Gas
Whether you’re managing a cosy seaside guesthouse, a game lodge deep in the bushveld or a 200-room city hotel, one reality remains true: energy costs are among the biggest ongoing expenses in hospitality. And when service delivery depends so heavily on heat – hot water, cooked meals, warm indoor spaces – electricity alone can be expensive, unreliable and inefficient.
That’s where LP Gas steps in as a game-changer.
LP Gas (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is a highly versatile, portable and instantly responsive energy source. It’s not only more affordable than electricity over time but also far more adaptable to the everyday demands of a busy hospitality operation.
Let’s unpack how gas transforms the hospitality experience – for both your team and your guests.
1. 🔥 Lower Energy Bills Without Lowering Standards
Electricity costs in South Africa have steadily climbed over the years and many business owners are now reaching the breaking point. With LP Gas, hospitality managers report savings on their monthly energy bills. Whether it’s a gas geyser, gas hob or full kitchen conversion, switching to gas significantly lowers the cost of heating water and cooking food – two of the most energy-intensive needs in hospitality.
That’s money you can reinvest into service upgrades, marketing or guest amenities – instead of draining into rising utility costs.
2. 🚿 Hot Water on Demand = Happy Guests
Few things ruin a stay faster than a cold shower. Gas geysers eliminate the frustration and complaints of guests about water not being hot – or worse, guests running out of hot water mid-shower and during peak shower times. With gas, you get instantaneous hot water that flows as long as it’s needed.
This is especially crucial in high-occupancy accommodation, where multiple guests may be showering at once. Whether it’s early-morning adventurers or late-night business travellers, gas ensures they always step into a steaming shower – and walk away pleased.
Benefitting from this is the Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport Hotel, Situated at one of Africa’s busiest travel hubs, which in 2021 to 2022 undertook a major upgrade to its energy infrastructure – converting one wing from old, corroded and expensive electrical water heaters to more efficient, modern instantaneous gas water heaters.
Crucially, the switch future-proofed their ability to deliver on one of the most basic (yet most important) guest expectations – a hot shower, anytime, without fail. This was not just an energy upgrade. It was a strategic service enhancement – with measurable impact on operational savings, sustainability and guest satisfaction.
3. 🍽️ Faster Food, Quicker Turnaround
Gas flames are instant, adjustable and reliable, which is why professional chefs around the world insist on cooking with gas. In a hotel, lodge or restaurant kitchen, that translates to faster food preparation, greater consistency and the ability to manage high volumes during busy periods.
The result? More meals served per hour, shorter wait times for guests and a smoother, more profitable operation overall.
Plus, gas cookers continue to work perfectly during load shedding – meaning your restaurant never has to close and your guests never go hungry.
4. ⚡ Power Outage? No Problem.
One of the most immediate benefits of LP Gas in South Africa’s current energy climate is its independence from the national power grid. Gas doesn’t flicker when the lights go out.
By incorporating gas systems into your property – especially for geysers, cooking and heating – you maintain full operational continuity, even during extended outages. Guests can enjoy uninterrupted comfort, while staff can deliver consistent service without skipping a beat.
5. 🌍 Greener Credentials for Conscious Travellers
Today’s travellers are more environmentally conscious than ever. Many seek out accommodation providers who actively reduce their carbon footprint and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.
Gas produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to electricity generated from coal-fired power stations – which still dominate South Africa’s energy mix. By switching to LP Gas, you position your establishment as an eco-aware player in the green tourism space.
This can boost your reputation, attract environmentally conscious clientele and even open doors to certifications or partnerships within the responsible tourism sector.
Deep within the Kruger National Park, the Skukuza Safari Lodge stands as a model for environmentally conscious hospitality. As part of its green transformation, the lodge introduced a new, energy-efficient kitchen system powered by gas. This move to gas wasn’t just about practicality – it was about protecting the environment their guests come to experience. Skukuza is a living example of how South African hospitality can meet global sustainability goals while enhancing guest comfort.
6. 🧠 Smarter Operations, Happier Teams
Let’s not forget the people behind the scenes. Housekeepers, chefs, porters and maintenance staff all work more efficiently when systems are fast and reliable. A gas-powered laundry, for instance, heats water quickly and dries linen faster – improving room turnover time. Kitchen staff appreciate the precision of gas flames. And maintenance teams benefit from fewer breakdowns and simpler installations.
In other words, gas doesn’t just save money – it improves morale, workflow and job satisfaction.
Hospitality businesses that switch to gas enjoy faster service delivery, greater energy resilience and higher guest satisfaction across the board. From hot water to hot meals, the comfort and convenience of your guests are no longer at the mercy of the grid.
Gas gives you control. And in hospitality, control means confidence.
Order your LPG Gas online: https://simsgas.co.za/shop/
Phone: 0861 746 7427
Email: jhbsales@simsgas.co.za
We will deliver to your home or business, so order today!
Johannesburg: 011 494 4232
Durban: 031 902 6533
Email: jhbsales@simsgas.co.za
Or fill in your gas supply query here:https://simsgas.co.za/contact-us/
SimsGas is an authorised @Oryx Energies South Africa distributor.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general educational and awareness purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of facts and references, SimsGas does not accept responsibility for any decisions made based on this content. Case studies mentioned, such as the Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport Hotel and Skukuza Safari Lodge, are cited from publicly available sources and reflect outcomes specific to those environments. Energy savings and operational results may vary depending on individual circumstances, installation quality, and gas usage patterns. For expert advice tailored to your business, we recommend consulting with a qualified gas installation professional or contacting SimsGas directly.
Author: Twaambo Chirwa
Sources:
http://www.psee.org.za/downloads/publications/FPP10369_Hospitality_Interactive10.pdf
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/11/8595
https://econrsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/working_paper_685.pdf
https://plumbingafrica.co.za/hotel-gets-gas-upgrade/