People may not realise how much energy different home appliances take – and how you could stand to save quite a bit by making simple changes
As energy prices continue to rise, identifying the most power-draining appliances can help Brits save hundreds of pounds. It comes as many feel the pinch from the rising cost of living.
People claimed that they could be forced to turn off their heating and hot water this winter in order to financially survive the rest of the year. This was due to the expected rise in household energy bills of around £150 a year on average.
Chris Madikian, an electrical expert at The Local Electrician, has highlighted the key offenders likely causing the most significant spikes in energy bills. He also has some simple tips for reducing their costly impact.
Chris said: “By making small adjustments like washing clothes in cold water or adjusting fridge temperatures, homeowners can not only lower their bills but also reduce their environmental impact. It’s all about making smarter choices with the devices we rely on every day.”
Washing machine: 244 kWh/year = £59.78 per year
An essential for any home, washing machines use substantial energy, particularly for hot-water cycles. To cut down on costs, wash on lower temperatures, use full loads and avoid pre-wash settings to cut down on energy costs.
Fridge-freezer: 302 kWh/year = £73.99 per year
The fridge-freezer is another staple appliance that can cause energy bills to spike, especially if not maintained properly. Chris recommends cranking the fridge setting to 4°C and avoiding frequent door opening to maintain efficient operation.
Chest freezer: 304 kWh/year = £74.48 per year
If you have a chest freezer, it’s probably using a significant amount of energy to maintain a steady temperature. But, regularly defrosting your freezer, ensuring door seals are intact and maintaining an optimal -18°C will get you maximum energy efficiency.
Tumble dryer: 388 kWh/year = £95.06 per year
Essential for colder months, tumble dryers contribute around 11% to the typical energy bill due to the power required to dry clothes effectively. Instead, you could try heated clothes airers, dehumidifiers or air-drying as much as possible to save energy and reduce appliance wear.
Washer-dryer: 425 kWh/year = £104.13 per year
These appliances account for approximately 12% of a typical energy bill, making them among the most energy-hungry in any household. The high usage of water and electricity required to heat it, combined with lengthy cycles, makes these appliances expensive to operate.
To claw back some cash, opt for cold-water washes, run full loads, use heated clothes airers. If possible, air-dry clothes to significantly cut down on energy consumption.
