Martin Lewis has warned homeowners not to use their washing machines or other energy-intensive appliances, such as a dryer, during peak times in the evening
(Picture: PA Archive)With the cost of living on most people’s minds, knowing which household appliances are big energy guzzlers and what the best times of the day to use them is essential.
MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis offered help in this respect when he appeared on This Morning. He told presenters Holly Willoughby and Philip Schofield about how people can reduce their energy bills and avoid potential power cuts.
Lewis advised viewers not to use their washing machines or other energy-intensive appliances, such as a dryer, during peak times in the evening. His warning came after the National Grid warned of power outages on “really, really cold” winter days throughout January and February in the “worst-case scenario”.
Lewis’s advice was part of a “general energy security message” that should have “been said more by the Government”.
“We are looking at energy difficulties this winter. We hope there will not be any blackouts,” he said.
“But there are emergency scenarios where power cuts — short power cuts — in different regions are possible that have been put forward by National Grid.”
Today's Twitter Poll: If the state announced there was a risk of blackout and asked all to voluntarily reduce usage at peak times 4:30pm to 6pm (eg by not putting washing machines etc on then) would you do it?
— Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) January 23, 2023
When should you not to use your washing machine?
The peak time for British electricity usage is between 4pm and 7pm.
Putting extra strain on the National Grid system during this period from using high-power devices could therefore increase the likelihood of it becoming overloaded.
“Let’s all try not to put stuff we don’t need to put on between 4pm and 7pm,” Lewis said.
“If we can avoid using lots of energy between 4pm and 7pm and it makes no difference to our lives, then we should all be somewhat conscious of that, whether or not it’s cheaper, because it will collectively help us all.”
Other cost-effective tips when using your washing machine
Experts have advised washing clothes on the shortest cycle, which is also known as a quick wash.
This helps to save energy as less water is used. It’s also heated to a lower temperature with a shorter spin cycle to further save on energy.
Not overloading the drum is also advised as this can potentially cause damage to your washing machine and make it less efficient.
Using your machine on eco mode is another sure-fire way to reduce costs.
