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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
World
Aaliyah Rugg

Homes urged to ignore energy saving myths as experts reveal which ones work

As the cost of living crisis continues, families across the UK will be coming up with ways to save money wherever they can.

From questions over whether to leave the heating on all day to putting clingfilm on windows, the moneysavingexpert.com has answered common questions on energy saving tips.

The best ways to save energy and therefore money are a hot topic, with controversial opinions and debates ongoing.

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But with help from Energy Saving Trust and other experts, your common questions have been answered.

Putting clingfilm on windows

According to the Energy Saving Trust, this one actually works and can keep your home warm.

Any material can be used as a second layer of glazing as long as it is transparent and airtight, but whilst clingfilm may work in theory, specialist glazing is advised.

The heating

Debates over whether to keep your heating on low all day or only turn it on when needed is ongoing.

But experts at the Energy Saving Trust say only turning it on when you need it saves the most money in the long run - but a timer is the best bet.

The Energy Saving Trust says if you're keeping the heating on all day you're losing energy all day but some specialists disagree, adding keeping it on all day could avoid condensation within the walls.

Money Saving Expert says if you should unplug unused appliances (Getty Images/Pete Gardner)

Leaving items on charge

According to British Gas, appliances at the plug can still use energy, even if not in use.

A lot of devices can draw small amounts of power even if switched on at the socket. Whilst it may not save much, the Energy Saving Trust says it can still be worth doing as small amounts can add up.

Smart metres

According to the moneysavingexpert.com, smart metres themselves will not save you money on their own, but instead will identify ways to save energy - showing you what you are using and how much it costs.

Radiators vs electric heaters

The Energy Saving Trust says electric heaters are one of the most expensive forms of heating and instead the cheapest way to heat your home is by using an efficient gas central heating system.

A Generic Photo of a person adjusting the valve on their radiator. See PA Feature HOMES Heating Bills. Picture credit should read: PA Photo/thinkstockphotos. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature HOMES Heating Bills. (PA Photo/thinkstockphotos)

Painting radiators black

Black may be a more efficient colour at absorbing and giving off heat, but for radiators, this is a myth according to the Energy Saving Trust.

Lights on or off

The Energy Saving Trust recommends turning off lights when leaving a room, rather than keeping them on, regardless of how long for.

People are also encouraged to be mindful of how many lights are on at any one time.

Drying clothes

During winter time when it is too cold to be outside, drying our clothes on the radiator seems like the easiest and most efficient way of completing our laundry.

But surprisingly, the easiest option could end up being the most expensive, costing you far more than you realise.

Putting cold and wet clothes on your radiators will make clothes act as a barrier between the heat radiators give off and the temperature of your home.

Similarly, an airer is better because tumble dryers use a lot of energy.

For more tips and myths, visit the moneysavingexpert.com.

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