With the cost of living crisis hitting many households across the UK, Brits are looking for ways to save money and reduce their energy bills – and even the time of day you use your tumble dryer can affect the cost
The cost of living squeeze continues to grip the nation, making everyday chores like drying clothes a financial juggle. British Gas highlights that off-peak electricity hours—typically at night, weekends, and during major holidays—offer lower usage rates as grid demand dips.
Making use of these quiet periods for tasks such as laundry or charging devices can shave pounds off your bills with energy firms offering time-of-use tariffs for these off-peak slots. It’s wise to inquire with your supplier about specific or seasonal peak times.
But what’s the optimal time to run your washing machine?
The experts from Mulberrys Garment Care explained: “Generally speaking, it’s a good idea to avoid doing laundry (or using other major electrical appliances) during your energy company’s ‘peak hours’, aka the time of day when the electricity demand and price per kWh are highest.”
They suggest timing heavy-duty appliances to run at night to snag those lower rates—and see real savings on energy bills. And remember, shifting to off-peak times isn’t the only way to trim costs; there are additional tactics to keep that wallet from getting lighter, reports the Express.
Real Simple suggests that incorporating dryer balls into your laundry routine can cut down drying time and reduce costs. These handy tools enhance airflow, thus speeding up the drying process.
It’s also crucial to keep your dryer lint-free as this can hinder its efficiency. Regularly check and clean the lint trap before and after each load for optimal performance.
Avoid cramming too much into the dryer as it will have to work harder and longer to dry your clothes. The most cost-effective method of drying your laundry is air-drying outdoors.
However, if the weather doesn’t allow for this or you lack an outdoor washing line, you can hang wet laundry on a clothes horse indoors. Be aware though, this can increase dampness in your home, so consider running a dehumidifier in the room where you’re drying your clothes.