The winter months seem to be doom and gloom for many us as the energy price cap rises again in the UK.
Not only does the weather get colder, many of us are trying to hold out from switching on the heating until nearer the end of the year.
Brits will likely be looking for tips and tricks to ensure we are doing all we can to save those pennies and reduce the amount of energy we use this winter.
Gwilym Snook, an appliance expert at AO.com, has debunked appliance myths and provided some handy tips to getting the most out of them.
From dishwashers being costly to the best time to turn our tumble dryers on, he gives some clarity on what we need to know.
MYTH: Dishwashers cost more than handwashing
Snook said: “Between a dishwasher and washing the dishes by hand, there is only one cost-effective winner, the dishwasher. According to the Energy Saving Trust, hand-washing dishes accounts for 4 percent of the average household’s water use – whereas dishwashers make up just 1 percent.
“This accounts for washing the dishes whilst leaving the tap running – a common mistake that leads to more households being out of pocket when facing their energy bills. Using a dishwasher also helps ensure the water is at the right temperature and clean enough to wash dishes thoroughly – Something far more difficult to achieve with handwashing.
“There’s a common misconception that eco cycles use more energy because they take a bit longer to complete a cycle. In truth, each eco setting washes dishes at lower temperatures and uses far less water.
“This means, on average, economy functions use 30 percent less energy and water when compared to a standard function.”
MYTH: Tumble dryers are inefficient compared to air-drying
The expert explained: “When tumble dryers are compared to air drying your clothes, a common myth believed is that tumble dryers are not cost-effective and add an extra burden on your bills. This is simply not true.
“A heat pump tumble dryer will cost 63p a cycle on average. A figure far smaller compared to using central heating to dry your clothes this winter. They work by recycling hot air created inside the drum to dry clothes, which saves a lot of energy and is the eco-friendly option.
“To reduce costs even further this winter, you can look to dry your clothes between 10pm and 8am during off-peak electricity hours.”
MYTH: Using an electric oven is costly
He added: “Many households are reluctant to buy an electric oven over fears it may cost a fortune in electricity. This is not true, and in fact, electric ovens consume far less energy than you might think.
“On average, an electric oven will total for only 8 percent of your total household electricity bill. A tiny fraction of cost considering that your fridge will typically account for 30 percent of the same usage.
“However, be mindful when using your oven, you don’t needlessly waste energy. Only preheat your oven when necessary and be sure to clean your oven once a month so it runs efficiently.”
MYTH: Keeping an old fridge saves you money
Snook said: “There is a well-known myth that older fridges save you money, however, this is simply not true. Old refrigerators use far more energy than newer fridges and cost more to run daily.
“Newer fridges offer better energy-efficiency and have greater features than their older counterparts. These modern additions like auto defrost or VitaFresh Pro help to make these fridges much more cost-effective.
“To help keep your fridge energy-efficient, make sure it is stocked up so that the temperature stays cooler for longer. As a rule of thumb, leave roughly 20 percent as open space to ensure your fridge runs efficiently.”
MYTH: Appliances don’t use power in standby mode
The expert advised: “A commonly believed myth is that appliances don’t use power in standby mode. Unfortunately, this is false – when an appliance like your TV or microwave is on standby mode, it will still use a notable volume of electricity.
“Instead, either turn the plug off at the switch or simply remove it to make sure your appliances aren’t on. Alternatively, you can look at smart home technology which will allow you to control your devices at a click of a button. Keep on top of Standby mode and you’ll notice a change to your electricity bills.”
