British Gas, OVO, EDF, EON and Octopus customers can save money on their energy bills through a special mode. A poll of 2,000 adults found 28 per cent consider the washing machine the most confusing object, with 47 per cent using the same programme every time.
The “quick wash” was the most popular setting for 59 per cent, while 26 per cent favour the “rinse and spin” cycle. 77 per cent hardly ever put their wash on eco-mode, with over half of customers find the length of time it runs for off-putting.
Two in five, meanwhile, don’t know if their machines even have this particular setting. A spokesperson for Utilita Energy said: “Kitchen appliances are designed to make life easier, but for many, the endless buttons, settings, and features can feel overwhelming.
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“It’s no surprise that so many people end up using the same setting time and time again. We’re aware that the ‘eco’ mode has been confused for an ‘ecology’ mode, which people assume is high cost for the pocket, but low cost for the environment.
“Simplifying the experience and understanding what your appliances can do can dramatically reduce energy costs and the impact each household has on the environment.” The spokesperson for Utilita Energy added: “Understanding how to use kitchen appliances effectively can make a real difference, not just in performance but in saving money too.
“Using the right settings can reduce energy consumption, cut waste, and improve efficiency – it’s about getting the most out of what you already own. Small changes in how we use our appliances can lead to big savings over time.”
The top 10 most confusing household appliances includes a washing machine, air fryer and oven in the top three followed by a dishwasher, tumble dryer, coffee machine, mixed/food processor, vacuum cleaner, fridge and also a blender.