With January’s chill and the nights drawing in early, energy consumption soars as homes crank up the heat to combat the cold.
This spike in usage comes at a time when many are already grappling with the cost of living crisis, prompting a search for ways to reduce those hefty energy bills.
One strategy is to scrutinise your appliance use; assessing how often you use them and whether there’s room to cut down. Energy specialist Gordon Wallis from Your NRG has pinpointed which household appliances are the main offenders in guzzling electricity.
According to him, tumble dryers and dishwashers rank as two of the most power-hungry gadgets in our homes.
1. Tumble dryer
Wallis warned: “Tumble dryers are one of the most energy-intensive appliances in the home. A single cycle can use as much energy as several other appliances combined.
“To save money, consider air-drying your clothes wherever possible or using your dryer’s energy-saving settings.”
Given that an average tumble dryer cycle gobbles up about 4.5kWh, these machines, while convenient, can become costly. Cutting back on their use and firing them up only when absolutely necessary could lead to savings.
Tumble dryers are expensive to run
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2. Dishwashers
Dishwashers may be a godsend for avoiding kitchen drudgery, but they can also be a drain on your electricity budget if not used wisely.
Gordon explained: “Dishwashers can quickly add to your energy costs if used inefficiently. Running the dishwasher only when it’s full and selecting energy-efficient modes can make a noticeable difference to your monthly bills.”
Dishwashers are often a staple in the modern home, but their energy consumption should not be overlooked. It’s advised to only operate these appliances when fully loaded and to utilize energy-saving settings whenever possible.
3. Fridge-freezers
Fridge-freezers, although vital, represent one of the most substantial constant energy expenditures within a household.
Gordon added: “While fridge freezers are essential, they’re always on, making them a constant energy drain. Simple habits like defrosting regularly and keeping the door closed can reduce their impact on your bills.”
4. Washing machines
Washing machines also play a significant role in home energy use, especially when used for small washes or at high temperatures.
The expert recommended: “Switching to eco settings and washing at lower temperatures can significantly lower energy consumption without compromising cleanliness.”
It is also worthwhile to check detergent packaging as many are effective at lower temperatures.
Ovens are considered a ‘hidden energy culprit’
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5. Ovens
When it comes to ovens, these too can be a “hidden energy culprit”, Gordon warned. To conserve energy, alternatives such as air fryers and microwaves should be considered for smaller meals. Failing those, batch cooking is also recommended.
According to the expert, electric ovens use about 0.87kWh per hour, while gas ovens consume around 1.5kWh.
He said: “January can be a tough month for energy bills, but being mindful of how and when you use these appliances can lead to significant savings over time.”
“Energy efficiency is about small, consistent changes that add up. With these practical tips, you can reduce energy consumption without compromising comfort or convenience.”