Appliance expert shares ‘most common mistakes’ which ‘drive up’ energy bills

Appliance expert shares ‘most common mistakes’ which ‘drive up’ energy bills (Image: Getty)

Appliances are used every single day in UK homes. Whether it’s the dishwasher, a washing machine or simply the kettle, homes are full of appliances.

However, some can be very expensive to run, and they become even more pricey to run when they aren’t being used correctly.

According to appliance experts at Hotpoint, they see common mistakes every day when it comes to using their appliances.

One of these involves using too much detergent in the washing machine.

Vivien Fodor, laundry category & TM lead at Hotpoint, said: “Many people guesstimate when adding laundry detergent to their machine, but this can lead to problems down the road.

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“Overusing detergent can leave residue on your clothes, clog your machine’s pipes, and can even cause serious issues in terms of blockages deeper in the system.”

Always follow the recommendations on the detergent packaging to avoid costly repairs.

Another mistake many people make is not checking their fridge door seals, which according to Kevin Merck, refrigeration category & TM lead at Hotpoint, is an overlooked part of owning this appliance.

The expert said: “If cold air escapes, the appliance has to work overtime to maintain its temperature, which can shorten its lifespan significantly and will drive up your energy bills as well.

“To test the seals, close the door on a piece of paper. If it slips out easily, the seals may need replacing. Keeping the seals in good condition is a simple way to help your fridge freezer run smoothly and avoid extra costs.”

It’s also super important not to use abrasive cleaners on hobs, as these can actually cause permanent damage to surfaces.

Zimbini Nkonjera, cooking category manager at Hotpoint, said: “Scratches not only ruin the appearance of your kitchen surfaces but also affect how efficiently your hob can distribute heat, particularly on glass hobs.

“Instead you should opt for cleaning products that have been designed specifically for your oven and hob area.”

Not only does this remove the risk of damage, but it also ensures you’re not introducing harmful chemicals to the places where you prepare and cook food.