With the instability of wholesale energy prices, UK households are bracing for a rise in energy bills in the coming months, making cost-saving measures essential.
Despite a drop from the peak levels of 2023, energy prices are still above those seen before the crisis, posing a challenge for many as they prepare to tackle their winter bills.
The Energy Trust highlights that washing machines, dishwashers, and tumble dryers makeup 14 percent of an average household’s energy bill. These appliances can significantly add to costs, particularly during the colder season. However, there is a savvy way to mitigate these expenses.
Energy specialists concur that a straightforward method to reduce laundry costs involves utilising what the energy experts term the “magic hour” – a lesser-known tip from energy experts, reports the Express.
The ‘magic hour’ explained
While most energy suppliers in the UK offer cheaper rates from 10pm to 8am, running appliances overnight is often advised against due to fire safety risks.
Yet, there exists an optimal timeframe between 7 am and 8 am. This “magic hour,” endorsed by experts at Dr Beckmann, is cited as the ideal period to operate your washing machine when tariffs are at their lowest.
Adopting this approach not only trims down costs but also enhances efficiency for homeowners. By doing laundry early, individuals can free up more time for drying before their day officially starts.
As the looming energy cost surge threatens households, making minor tweaks to daily routines could have a significant impact on savings.
Nifty laundry tips for boosting efficiency
Beyond adhering to the optimal timing for electricity use, there’s an array of strategies advised by experts for enhancing laundry efficiency.
Embrace cooler washes
Ditching higher temperatures in favor of washing at 30C can halve your energy consumption and still yield clean results for most washing loads.
For hygiene with linens and undergarments, a warmer cycle of 60C or 40C combined with bleach-infused products is best. Reserve these hotter washes as separate loads while engaging the ECO feature to pare down expenses.
Max out each load
Economize by waiting until you have a full load before running the washer, as this is more economical than washing smaller batches.
To avoid cramming too much into your machine, try Ariel’s “1-palm trick”your hand should snugly fit between the drum and the clothes when the machine is suitably filled.
Maintain your washing appliance
With time, washing machines may degrade in efficiency; hence, maintenance is crucial for enduring performance.
Key tips include not overfilling, cleaning the filter every month, routine high-temperature maintenance washes, and ensuring pockets are empty to circumvent potential damages.
Opt for biological capsules
If targeting stubborn stains at lower heat, opt for biological capsules or liquids. These detergents are laced with enzymes that perform optimally at chillier temperatures.
For those with sensitive skin, non-biological versions offer a milder alternative.
However, it’s worth noting that non-bio detergents are more suitable for sensitive skin as they contain fewer harsh enzymes.
Consider investing in some dryer balls
Dryer balls prevent laundry from clumping together in the dryer by separating fabrics, which allows warm air to circulate more effectively and could potentially reduce drying time.
They also help combat wrinkles, reduce static, and leave clothes feeling soft.
By making a few adjustments to your laundry routine, such as utilising the magic hour, washing at cooler temperatures, and ensuring machines are well-maintained, you can keep your energy bills under control this winter.
