With energy costs set to rise again this winter, putting extra strain on household budgets across Britain, experts are urging families to take simple steps to reduce their energy consumption, starting with cleaning key appliances.
Salah Sun, head of product management at Beko UK, which is a leading manufacturer of home appliances including tumble dryers, stresses the importance of regular maintenance.
“Maintenance isn’t just about extending appliance lifespan,” he said.
“Clean filters, descaled heating elements, and well-maintained door seals can help you reduce your household’s energy consumption.”
Creating simple routines can make a real difference: clean washing machine filters every six to eight weeks, tumble dryer lint traps after every use and dishwasher filters monthly.
These small steps help appliances run more efficiently, lowering energy use and bills over time.
Alongside maintenance, how you use appliances also affects energy consumption. Both overloading and underloading washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers can reduce performance while increasing energy use.
“Overloading your appliances forces them to work harder, using more energy whilst potentially delivering poorer results,” said Sun.
“Equally, running half-empty loads wastes energy and water. Finding a balanced load size for each cycle maximises efficiency whilst ensuring optimal performance.”
For washing machines, aim to fill the drum approximately three-quarters full, allowing clothes to move freely. Dishwashers should be fully loaded but not packed too tightly so water can circulate effectively.
For smaller loads, use a half-load programme if available. Tumble dryers perform best with half to three-quarters full loads.
The energy regulator Ofgem estimates that a typical UK household consumes around 2,700 kWh of electricity annually, with the current energy price cap at 26.35 pence per kWh from 1 October to 31 December.
By focusing on appliance maintenance and efficient usage, households can reduce their energy consumption, save money, and keep appliances in top condition, all while easing the strain of rising bills this winter.
