Households looking to reduce energy bills ahead of a predicted price cap rise should consider turning off appliances at the plug, according to energy and appliance experts. Ofgem is due to announce the new energy price cap on May 27, with Cornwall Insight forecasting a typical dual-fuel household will pay £1,973 a year from July to September, up £332 from the current £1,641.
Game consoles left on standby can cost around £30.13 annually, says Mitchell Wray of National Insulation Supplies. Nick Bunce, TV and gaming expert at AO, advises switching consoles off at the wall when not in use and turning them off once controllers are fully charged.
Desktop computers in standby mode can add £10 to £15 a year to electricity bills, according to Free Heating Scheme experts. Turning them off completely when not in use can lead to significant savings.
Microwaves left on standby, which power digital clocks, can cost between £3 and £6 annually. Turning them off at the wall when not needed can contribute to long-term savings.
TVs also consume power on standby for features like clock displays and sensor lights. Mitchell Wray says switching off at the plug can save money. Older appliances, such as fridges over 10 to 15 years old, are less energy-efficient and can consume 100 to 200 kWh per month; upgrading to a modern model could be a wise investment.
