Leaving appliances on stand-by zaps energy and increases your bills. It's something we have known for years but as the cost of living crisis deepens it has become ever more important to flick the switch when you've finished using an appliance or piece of tech. But do you know which items in your home are the worst for eating up your hard-earned cash?
Studies show your annual energy bill could racking up for things you're not even using. Some have termed them 'vampire appliances'.
Natalia Lachim from the Discount Code says leaving certain appliances plugged in and turned on will drain electricity even if you are not using it. She says: "This is because electricity will be allowed to run through, thereby increasing your energy use and, sadly, your energy bills." Now we are not suggesting unplugging everything - that fridge freezer needs to stay firmly plugged in at the wall, but others, such as the TV could easily be unplugged when you go off to bed. Here are some of the worst energy-draining appliances according to Natalia.
Games consoles
It you recognise the familiar glow of the games console even when it's not switched on, then you need to start unplugging - it’s adding to your energy bill. Gaming consoles frequently go unnoticed and are just as likely to be left plugged in and on.
READ MORE: Mobile phone charging tips which could save money on energy bills
Television
Alongside the games console is the TV. Technological advances have unfortunately not made it easier to actually switch off your TV. Whilst your old-fashioned TV would have a big switch-off button, modern TVs with their remote controls, usually only offer standby mode. So, if you don’t want it idling in standby mode, you will have to make the effort to get up and turn the set off at the wall.
A 2021 study showed a massive 98% of UK households admit to leaving their TV on standby at all times, with many wrongly assuming that turning off via the remote switches it off entirely.
Fridge/Freezer
“As every household needs to keep their fridge/freezer on, it is hardly surprising more than 12% of the entire household’s energy comes from running the fridge/freezer alone,” says Natalia. Running this one appliance costs you around £138.72 per year.
Whilst you cannot simply turn off your fridge, there are ways to ensure it works as efficiently as possible. The simplest way to make sure the fridge functions properly, according to her, is to routinely clean both the exterior and the interior. “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 the fridge doesn’t need to work as hard to keep food cool or frozen.”
Alarm clock
Did the gloomy weather make you invest in a SAD lamp? Or maybe you favour using a traditional alarm clock instead? Whatever the reason, alarm clocks connected to your mains will add to your energy bill.
“If your alarm clock is mains operated and is plugged in all the time, it can cost you around £24.48 annually,” Natalia says. “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."
Chargers
With many people working from home these days, almost all of us are guilty of leaving our chargers plugged in and ready to charge as soon as we need them. While it may be convenient, it is not the most cost-effective way to juice up your devices and can lead to battery deterioration.
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