With energy bills poised to rise, households throughout the UK will be bracing for another increase. While certain costs may be unavoidable, experts suggest that some routine household practices and forgotten appliances could be silently inflating bills without people being aware.
Recognising Energy-Draining Habits
Recognising which appliances consume the most energy and adopting simple habits to use them more efficiently can have a meaningful impact. Home expert Nancy Emery from Tap Warehouse is encouraging households to be mindful of "vampire devices". These are electrical items that continue to draw power even when they appear to be turned off.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, households in Great Britain could save approximately £45 annually simply by switching appliances completely off standby mode. Nancy said: "Many of us assume that once an appliance is switched off, it stops using electricity altogether. But some devices can continue drawing power in standby mode, quietly using energy day and night."
"While the cost of running a single appliance may seem small, multiple devices left plugged in across the home can add up over time."
Not Unplugging Equipment
Equipment, including televisions, gaming consoles, coffee makers, and chargers, can continue to draw power even when not actively in use. Additionally, switching off microwaves and air fryers when not in use can help reduce energy use and improve safety.
Running the Dishwasher Half-Empty
Nancy said: "Dishwashers are generally more efficient than washing up by hand, but running half-empty cycles uses unnecessary water and electricity. Waiting until the machine is full and using eco settings where available can help reduce waste."
According to the Energy Saving Trust, dishwashers, washing machines and tumble dryers represent approximately 14% of a typical household energy bill, making their efficient operation worthwhile.
Not Fixing Dripping Taps
A dripping tap can waste thousands of litres of water each year, particularly when hot water is involved. Frequently, the problem stems from a worn cartridge or washer, a minor component that can cost as little as £5. Nancy added: "If left, a trickling tap can waste around 5,500 litres of water annually, equivalent to roughly three months of daily showers on top of your regular use. That could add around £14-£16 per year to household bills from just one leaking tap."
Boiling Too Much Water
Overfilling the kettle represents one of the most widespread energy-wasting practices in UK kitchens. If you overfill the appliance by just half a litre daily, that amounts to approximately 365 litres of needlessly heated water annually, according to the experts.
Not Switching the Lights Off
Leaving lights on in unoccupied rooms can waste electricity, especially if they remain on for extended periods. Nancy said: "Even with LED bulbs, unnecessary lighting can add up over time. If a light is needed overnight, consider using a low-energy plug-in night light instead." In fact, the Energy Saving Trust says this can save around £8 a year.
