Scots have been experiencing high levels of humidity amid the recent heatwave, with Glasgow forecast to reach 71 percent humidity and Edinburgh 76 percent, according to AccuWeather. As the clammy conditions continue, many households are desperate to find ways to keep their homes cooler.
Hidden Heat Sources in Your Home
Experts have warned that several common household devices can actually make your property hotter while quietly increasing your energy bills. Madeleine Porter, Head of Marketing at Utility Bidder, explains that using these devices during the afternoon releases more heat into your space. It is best to use them early in the morning or late at night when temperatures are lower.
Porter stated: "Many households focus on keeping heat out during a heatwave, but it's equally important to consider the heat being generated inside the home. Almost every electrical appliance produces heat when it uses energy, and many devices continue drawing power even when they're not actively being used."
Devices to Watch
Older TVs and entertainment systems are typically less energy-efficient and can draw electricity on standby. Extension leads packed with electronics produce more heat when multiple devices draw power. Leaving chargers plugged in contributes to energy waste and heat generation. Keeping your boiler running unnecessarily during summer also adds heat.
Running appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, tumble dryers, and ovens during the hottest part of the day releases heat into the home. Leaving computers running all day, using halogen or incandescent bulbs, and ignoring old fridges and freezers with worn seals all contribute to indoor heat.
Impact on Energy Bills
Porter added: "Appliances left on standby, older electronics, gaming equipment, and household devices can all act as hidden energy drains, quietly consuming electricity while contributing to indoor heat. While the impact of a single device is often minimal, the combined effect of multiple appliances running unnecessarily can make rooms feel warmer and increase reliance on fans or other cooling devices."
Reviewing which appliances are left plugged in, switched on, or running in the background can help households keep their homes cooler, reduce avoidable energy consumption, and keep electricity bills under better control.
