WITH energy bills soaring, now is the time to think about the appliances we use and the choices we make.
You can save hundreds of pounds a year by using energy-guzzling machines more wisely and swapping to more efficient models when it’s time to replace them.
SAVVY BUY: Look out for eco-friendly models when buying new appliances. Consumer group Which? says choosing a more efficient washing machine could save up to £55 a year. It might cost more upfront but you will spend less over the lifetime of the product.
SAVE: £55
GO ECO: Using your washing machine’s eco setting can cut water usage by up to 40 per cent per wash. Run a full load each time and you could save £15 a year by doing one less clean a week. Use eco mode on your dishwasher too.
SAVE: £15
FILL YOUR FREEZER: Stock up your freezer and you will save on electricity as it uses less when full.
FANCY A BREW?: Fill the kettle with as much water as you need for a cuppa or two and you could shave £7 off your bill, says the Energy Saving Trust.
SAVE: £7
THINK SMART: Invest in smart thermostats which connect to your smartphone so you can easily control the heating and be more frugal. The Google Nest thermostat is down from £219 to £179 at Currys.
SAVE: £40
LIGHT UP: Switch from traditional lightbulbs to LEDs, which use less energy.
SAVE: £9 per bulb per year
SWITCH OFF: Turn TVs and other devices off standby and unplug phones when fully charged to save up to £40 a year. Smart plugs let you switch off appliances when not at home. The Hive plug is down from £34.98 to £29.98 at Toolstation.
- PRICES correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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