If you don’t unplug these five household appliances, you’ll be paying hundreds of dollars in expenses each year.

Chris Madikian, an electrical specialist from The Local Electrician, has identified the five major items that could potentially add an additional £407 to your energy bill.

The warning follows Ofgem’s announcement that the energy price ceiling will rise by 1.2 percent from January 1 to March 31, 2025.

This implies that the average yearly cost for a typical dual-fuel family paying by direct debit will rise to £1,738, £21 over the existing price ceiling.

However, Madikian claims that disconnecting just five gadgets would save you hundreds on your expenses.

Washer dryer.
A washer dryer adds around £104.13 to your annual costs, with an average energy use of 425 kWh.
Instead, it is advisable to air-dry garments whenever feasible, run full loads, and use cold water washes.

Tumble Dryers

Tumble dryers cost around £95.06 per year and consume 388 kWh, accounting for almost 11% of the typical home energy expenditure.
Again, wherever feasible, air-drying is suggested.

Chest freezers
The final appliance you should disconnect is your chest freezer.
They consume 304 kWh per year, totaling £74.48 in expenditures.
Fridge freezers

Fridge freezers rank fourth, costing £73.99 per year and using 302 kWh.

When feasible, keep the fridge temperature at 4°C and open it as little as possible.

Washing machines

With an energy use of 244 kWh per washing machine, the average family spends £59.78 each year.

“As energy costs continue to rise, being aware of the most energy-intensive appliances in our homes—and knowing how to use them efficiently—can lead to substantial savings,” Madikian told me.

“By making modest changes, such as washing clothing in cold water or altering fridge temperatures, homeowners may not only cut energy expenditures but also lessen their environmental effect.

“It’s all about making smarter choices with the devices we rely on every day.”

Gordon Wallis, an energy expert at Your NRG, has also cautioned against ‘vampire gadgets’ that sap your energy.

He explained: “Christmas frequently means extra time at home with family, watching movies, playing games, or trying out new technologies. However, many devices consume energy even in standby mode, which can discreetly add to your bill.

“When not in use, devices such as televisions, gaming consoles, and phone chargers continue to demand power. Simply turning them off at the outlet can help you save much over the holidays.”

“When you leave a room, turn off the lights and lock the doors to unoccupied spaces to keep heat in the rooms you use. These minor modifications can have a large impact.”