Never leave ‘energy-draining’ devices on standby and ‘save hundreds’ annually

With many people still looking for ways to save money, one of the simplest ways is to eliminate unnecessary electricity use.

Leaving appliances on standby may be convenient, but they are still using energy, according to experts.

1. Kettle

The comparison experts at Bionic said: “Whilst your kettle isn’t a huge energy consumer, switching it off when you aren’t using it can help save you money.

“By boiling the kettle with the right amount of water for your drink, you can also help save on your energy as your kettle won’t need to boil unnecessary amounts.”

Leaving a kettle on standby all year could add up to a whopping £40 on energy bills.

2. Phone and laptop chargers

Leaving phone chargers plugged in next to a sofa or bed makes for quick and easy charging, but it isn’t recommended.

Even when there is no device connected at the end of it, it is still draining power, according to the pros.

3. Games consoles

The experts said leaving game consoles plugged in and on standby could cost as much as a few pounds per day.

When not in use, make sure to turn the game console off at the plug to save energy.

4. Fridge

Fridges must be left on all of the time to keep food fresh which makes them one of the most energy-intensive appliances in the home.

However, according to the experts, there are ways to make sure it is running efficiently.

This includes keeping it two-thirds full to run most efficiently as it leaves enough space for the air to circulate freely inside.

Les Roberts, business comparison expert at Bionic, commented: “We can often forget that when we turn devices off, they are left on standby and continue to use energy.

“The best way to combat this is to remember to turn non-essential electricals off at the plug. It can save you hundreds of pounds annually and only takes two seconds.”