State FOUR disadvantages of using gas in a house - NSC Consumer Studies - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1

1. Fraudulent behavior, which includes illegal acts that harm consumers.

2. Misrepresentation of products or services, leading the consumer to make false assumptions.

3. Engaging in oppressive or unreasonable actions against consumers, including exploitation.

4. Making false promises or misleading statements aimed at convincing consumers to make purchases.

1. Use cold water instead of hot water which reduces energy consumption during the wash cycle.

2. Wash full loads of laundry to maximize efficiency and minimize the number of times the machine is used.

3. Choose shorter washing programs or use pre-wash settings to decrease electricity usage.

In a prize notification scam, the victim receives an email or SMS claiming that they have won a lottery or prize. They are then asked to provide personal information or make a deposit to claim their prize. This leads to the scammer stealing money from the victim.

A lottery scam may involve an unsolicited message that informs the victim of their supposed winnings, often requiring a fee to claim the prize, which has no real existence.

1. Taking quick showers uses less water than filling a bath.

2. Installing a showerhead that reduces flow can greatly save water.

3. Turning off the tap while soaping can conserve water during a shower.

4. Using the bathwater for other purposes, such as watering plants, can maximize water use efficiency.

Municipalities like Eskom generate electricity and distribute it to communities. They may install prepaid meters to manage usage, ensuring consumers are billed accurately as per consumption levels. Additionally, some municipalities may provide free electricity as part of their community support programs.

Consumers should report any electrical malfunctions to their service provider immediately. They can also educate themselves on proper usage and energy conservation to minimize waste. Additionally, routine checks on their electrical systems can ensure safe and efficient electricity usage.

An illegal pyramid scheme often promises high returns, typically more than 20% above the repo rate. Members recruit others while being compensated for doing so. However, once recruitment slows down, the scheme collapses as it relies heavily on new members for funding. Participants often lose their investments, while only the initiators profit significantly.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is the primary instrument used to measure inflation. It tracks the average change over time in the prices paid by consumers for a basket of goods and services, reflecting the purchasing power and cost of living.

Interest rate hikes might lead to higher costs for homeowners on mortgages, increasing the financial burden. Individuals with variable rate loans may also feel the pinch as repayments increase, potentially leading to financial strain. Conversely, savers may benefit from higher interest rates on their savings, which could improve their financial stability.