Households heading away on holiday this summer are being warned that leaving one common appliance switched on could unnecessarily increase energy use while they're away. While many people remember to switch off lights and unplug devices before leaving, energy experts say forgetting to adjust your fridge-freezer settings or leaving an old second fridge running can quietly waste electricity throughout your holiday.
Overlooked Appliances
Gordon Wallis, energy expert at Your NRG, said many households overlook appliances that continue to draw power even when the property is empty. Wallis said: "Most people do a quick check before leaving for holiday, making sure the windows are shut and the doors are locked, but they often forget about the appliances that will continue running while nobody is home."
Second Fridge Warning
"If you've got an old second fridge or drinks fridge in the garage that's barely being used, leaving it switched on for a week or two while you're away is simply wasting energy. If it's empty, switch it off, unplug it and leave the door slightly ajar to prevent mould," Wallis explained.
Homeowners should avoid switching off their main fridge-freezer unless it has been completely emptied and defrosted beforehand. "Your main fridge-freezer should generally remain switched on if it contains food, but it's worth checking the temperature before you leave. Setting it colder than necessary won't keep food fresher for longer – it simply increases electricity use," he said.
Optimal Temperatures
"For most households, keeping your fridge between 3°C and 5°C and your freezer at around -18°C is enough to keep food safe while using energy efficiently."
Standby Power Drain
Wallis added that several other appliances should be remembered before locking up. "Televisions, games consoles, printers, coffee machines and microwave displays all continue using small amounts of electricity when left on standby. Individually the savings might seem small, but if you're away for two weeks there's no reason to leave them drawing power." He also noted: "It's also worth unplugging chargers that aren't being used. They consume very little electricity on their own, but it's an easy habit that helps cut unnecessary energy use."
Top Energy-Saving Tips
- Switch off and unplug any empty second fridge or drinks fridge.
- Leave your main fridge-freezer running if it contains food, but check it's set to the correct temperature.
- Turn off televisions, games consoles and other entertainment devices at the wall.
- Unplug chargers, coffee machines and small kitchen appliances.
- Switch off unnecessary lights before leaving.
- Set timers only where needed for security lighting or lamps if you'll be away for an extended period.
- Avoid leaving unnecessary appliances on standby while the house is empty.
Wallis said: "A few simple checks before you head off can help reduce unnecessary energy use while your home is sitting empty. It won't transform your annual bill overnight, but every bit helps, particularly during the summer holiday season when many households are away for a week or more."
