Geyser, heater rates soar as winter sets in

As the country experiences the onset of winter, the prices of geysers and heaters have skyrocketed across Peshawar, with solar-powered models also making their way into the market.

Dealers and consumers report that prices have risen severalfold compared to last year, with profiteers cashing in on the seasonal demand.

According to market surveys, the price of five-gallon geysers has increased by Rs5,000 to Rs8,000, while ten-gallon models now cost Rs8,000 to Rs10,000 more than last year.

Larger 10-30 gallon geysers have seen price hikes of up to Rs15,000, as traders cite higher manufacturing and import costs. However, consumers attribute the surge to profiteering and weak price regulation.

The increase in price comes amid surging demand for geysers and heaters as temperatures begin to drop. However, traders say the market is witnessing a shift this year, with solar-powered geysers and heaters replacing those reliant on natural gas due to supply constraints. Many dealers have introduced new solar variants, claiming they are more cost-effective in the long run.

On the other hand, residents lament that low-quality and unsafe geysers and heaters are being sold at high prices across the city. Substandard products imported without certification are now widely available.