NerdWallet UK’s personal finance expert Amy Knight shed light on the hidden “phantom load” that could be inflating energy bills. Homes powered entirely by electricity or those using both gas and electricity might see their energy costs soar by up to 30% due to appliances left on standby, which Amy refers to as the “phantom load.”
She said: “Energy consumed by appliances [regarded as the ‘phantom load’] on standby can add up to 30 percent to bills.” To combat this, Amy recommends a simple yet effective measure: “So diligently switching devices off at the socket can create savings over time.”
But Amy didn’t stop there; she also shared additional insights for reducing energy expenses. When selecting an energy provider, she advises not to rush: “Use price comparison websites to see which providers can offer the best energy price for your property,” she said.
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For those concerned about affording heating costs this winter, Amy suggests reaching out to energy suppliers, who are obligated to assist vulnerable customers and those facing financial hardships, reports the Express.
Moreover, Amy highlighted the long-term benefits of LED lightbulbs, noting they “use up to 90% less energy and last 20 times longer” than traditional bulbs. By replacing all the lightbulbs in your home with LEDs, households could potentially save around £1,200, assuming there are eight bulbs to change.
When it comes to choosing your energy supplier, it’s worth taking the extra five minutes to check you’re on the most affordable tariff
(Image: (Image: Getty))
“The lifespan of an LED bulb means you’ll continue benefiting from lower energy use for years to come,” Amy added. She also suggested avoiding the urge to crank up the thermostat by simply installing “draught-proof strips around windows and reflective foil behind radiators to direct heat back into the room”.
By minimising how much heat escapes your home, you can turn down the thermostat and reduce energy bills.