Following the introduction of the energy price guarantee on October 1, households across Scotland and the UK are looking for ways to cut back on costs.
From turning off the heating and instead wearing warm layers, to switching to energy-efficient lightbulbs, there are plenty of ways to keep bills as low as possible.
Another way to save money on energy bills is to switch appliances that are not in use off at the wall. According to moneysaving site Discount Code, research has revealed that leaving appliances on standby mode can add a substantial amount of money to your bills.
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Natalia Lachim from the Discount Code explained that leaving certain items plugged in will continue to use electricity even if they are not in use. She stated: "This is because electricity will be allowed to run through, thereby increasing your energy use and, sadly, your energy bills."
As reported by Edinburgh Live, some appliances drain more electricity — and therefore energy — than others. Discount Code has compiled a list of the worst offenders.
Household appliances that drain energy and cost money
Television
Unlike televisions from years gone by, many newer TVs do not actually have an off button. Instead, they can only be left on standby mode.
Therefore, if you want to save money, you will need to switch the device off at the wall. According to a 2021 study, 98 per cent of UK households leave their TV on standby rather than switching it off fully.
Fridge/Freezer
Natalia said: “As every household needs to keep their fridge/freezer on, it is hardly surprising that over 12 per cent of the entire household’s energy comes from running the fridge/freezer alone."
Running a fridge/freezer can cost approximately £138.72 a year. While this cannot be turned off, lest your food go to waste, there are a number of ways to ensure it is efficient as possible.
According to Natalia, the easiest way to maximise efficiency is to regularly clean the inside and outside of the appliance. She explained: “Dusting the exterior means the cooling system won’t get affected, whereas cleaning the interior and disposing of any out-of-date food will ensure that the fridge doesn’t need to work as hard to keep food cool or frozen.”
Gaming consoles
Gaming devices like the PlayStation and Xbox can add a hefty amount to your electricity bills if not properly switched off. Since they have standby modes, it is important to remember to fully turn them off at the wall.
Plugged in chargers
With many people home more often these days, particularly for work, it is common to leave phone chargers and the like plugged in all day. However, doing this is not cost-effective.
Alarm clock
Alarm clocks that are connected to your mains will also drain your electricity. Natalia explained: “If your alarm clock is mains operated and is plugged in all the time, it can cost you around £24.48 annually.
"Although this may not seem too expensive, to make further savings, you could consider turning off your clock when not in use and simply reset the time and your alarm before going to bed."
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