UK Households Urged to Cut Energy Costs by Switching Off Appliances

UK households are being encouraged to turn off specific appliances rather than leaving them on standby, according to property expert Eric Bramlett, owner of Bramlett Residential. His advice comes amid rising energy costs that have left many consumers concerned about their monthly bills. Bramlett highlighted five main appliances that should never be left on standby, emphasizing their significant energy consumption.

Identifying Energy Drains

Bramlett noted that games consoles and satellite boxes are among the worst offenders when it comes to energy waste. He shared an anecdote about a client whose energy bills significantly decreased after unplugging their console when not in use. “They can be real energy hogs on standby,” he stated, urging households to take action.

A representative from the Energy Saving Trust supported Bramlett’s claims, stating that older electrical appliances tend to consume more energy over time as their components degrade. For instance, an aging refrigerator is known to be a substantial energy drain, though it is not advisable to turn off such essential equipment. Instead, replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model could be a wise investment in the long run.

Bramlett also pointed to microwave ovens, which continue to draw power to keep their clock display running. He suggested that families could save on their electricity bills by unplugging the microwave or using a power strip to easily disconnect it when not in use.

The desktop computer is another appliance Bramlett highlighted. He expressed frustration over how many people leave their computers running unnecessarily. “Just shut them down when you’re done using them and watch your bills melt away,” he advised.

Wider Implications for Households

The advice comes as many UK households brace for a challenging winter, with energy prices expected to remain high. Gillian Cooper, a director at Citizens Advice, indicated that the charity is preparing for an increase in inquiries as people struggle to afford their energy bills and top up their meters. “The Labour Party government has made welcome changes to expand the number of people who’ll receive support with their energy bills this winter, but it’s not enough to turn the tide,” she remarked.

Cooper emphasized the need for long-term solutions, urging the government to outline plans to support the most vulnerable households in the coming years. She also called for prioritizing investments in energy upgrades across millions of homes to help reduce costs and keep money in people’s pockets. The urgency of these measures underscores the need for households to be proactive about their energy usage, especially as winter approaches.

As energy costs continue to rise, small changes in household habits can lead to significant savings. By turning off appliances instead of leaving them on standby, consumers can take a meaningful step toward managing their energy expenses effectively.