Money-saving guru Martin Lewis has issued a stark warning to UK households, urging them to reconsider their use of a common but costly 'demon appliance' that can significantly inflate winter energy bills.
The 'Demon Appliance' in Your Home
In a recent discussion, the founder of MoneySavingExpert.com highlighted the tumble dryer as a major culprit behind soaring energy costs. Martin Lewis specifically advised that running this appliance can cost up to £1 per load, and for older, less efficient models, the price can skyrocket to £1.50 or more.
"Do you know what the real demon appliance is in most people's houses?" Lewis asked during a BBC News interview. "The one that you don't want to use because it's really expensive - tumble dryers." He emphasised that many people are unknowingly driving up their bills by relying on this device, especially during the colder months when heating use is already high.
How to Dry Clothes and Save Money
Lewis provided clear, practical alternatives to limit the financial drain. His primary recommendation is to dry clothes on an airer outside whenever possible, even in winter, to shorten the required tumble dryer time. For those concerned about damp indoors, he suggested using a dehumidifier.
"Those who have dehumidifiers - that can take some of the moisture out," he explained. "It's less wattage than the tumble dryer, so it can be more effective." The exact cost of using a tumble dryer varies based on your electricity tariff, the dryer's age, type, and efficiency. Modern heat pump models are generally the cheapest to run, at roughly 60p to £1 per cycle.
Taking Control of Your Winter Bills
The core message from Martin Lewis is straightforward: use your tumble dryer as little as you can. By consciously reducing reliance on this appliance, households can make a noticeable dent in their energy expenditure. With bills remaining a pressing concern for millions, this simple behavioural change could lead to substantial annual savings.
Lewis's advice underscores a broader strategy for financial savvy during the cost-of-living crisis. Identifying and moderating the use of energy-intensive appliances is a key step in taking control of household budgets, proving that sometimes the biggest savings come from changing everyday habits.
