Kitchen appliances use up a lot of energy, and things like fridges and freezers cannot be turned off while they're filled, so you've got no option but to keep them running at all times despite the rising cost of living. But there may be a way to make these appliances work more efficiently for you so they're not costing you as much money, helping you see a reduction in your bills.
Savings expert at discounts platform Deal.Town, Sam Whillance, explained to the Express a handy tip to save yourself some money this winter - and it involves stocking your freezer as much as possible with bags full of water.
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Sam said that "stocking up your freezer can save money in several ways" as keeping it full and compact reduces energy consumption, rather than leaving lots of space.
He noted that keeping the freezer full can make it work more efficiently and keep bills down so it is essential people fill up their freezer, but this doesn't mean you have to spend hundreds of pounds on freezer food for the family if you won't use it.
He explained: "When your freezer is full, there is less room for warmer air to come in, and the items that are in there will help to cool down any warmer air that does sneak in."
Ice blocks or bags with water work just as well as packs of fish fingers or chips.
You can use ziplock bags filled with water, ice blocks or even bags of ice to prevent the air from entering - these items are cheap, yet effective.
Sam also recommended having an organise of your freezer, as storing things in different ways can help with the cost.
"Essentially, keeping it full and compact means less energy will be used - reducing your bills," he said.
Frozen food obviously keeps longer too, so if you are looking to save money, it may be worth stocking up on these sorts of products.
And whilst frozen food may conjure up images of unhealthy things, it doesn't have to be that way - there are plenty of healthy things which can be stored in the freezer, and they're cheap.
The saving expert suggests putting things you won't need immediately towards the back so you don't have to keep rearranging things, putting your hard work to waste.
He also recommended not cluttering the fridge near the ventilating outlet as it helps the cool air move around easier.
Will you try this water bag hack? Let us know in the comments.
