State Pensioners Advised to Unplug These 5 Devices Before April Energy Price Hike

As energy prices are set to rise by approximately 5% in April 2025, pensioners must identify household devices that significantly contribute to energy consumption. By managing these devices effectively, substantial savings can be achieved.

Understanding the Upcoming Energy Price Increase

Analysts at Cornwall Insight have projected a near 5% increase in Britain’s domestic energy price cap this April

. This rise is attributed to factors such as colder weather and low gas storage levels in Europe, leading to higher wholesale prices. For pensioners on fixed incomes, this escalation underscores the importance of proactive energy management.

High Energy-Consuming Household Devices

Identifying and managing devices that consume significant energy can lead to noticeable reductions in monthly bills. Below is a table summarizing five such devices and their potential impact:

Device	Average Consumption	Monthly Cost	Recommendation
Air Conditioning Units	2 kWh per hour	£60	Use sparingly; consider alternative cooling methods.
Hot Tubs	2.5 kWh per day	£150	Turn off when not in use; heat only as needed.
Garden Water Features	Continuous usage	£10	Use timers or switch off when not in use.
Televisions on Standby	10-20 watts/hour	£12 annually	Unplug when not in use to prevent standby power consumption.
Fans	75 watts/hour	£5	Use natural ventilation methods when possible.

Air Conditioning Units

Air conditioning units are among the most energy-intensive appliances. Operating at approximately 2 kWh per hour, extended use can add up to £60 monthly to energy bills. To mitigate this, utilize air conditioning sparingly and explore alternative cooling methods, such as natural ventilation or energy-efficient fans.

Hot Tubs

Maintaining a hot tub at a constant temperature can consume about 2.5 kWh daily, equating to an estimated £150 monthly. For infrequent use, it’s more economical to turn off the hot tub and heat it only when needed. This practice can lead to significant savings over time.

Garden Water Features

While aesthetically pleasing, continuously running electric water features can add approximately £10 monthly to energy expenses. Consider installing a timer to operate the feature only during specific periods or switching to solar-powered alternatives to reduce costs.

Televisions on Standby

Modern televisions, especially smart TVs, consume energy even in standby mode, averaging 10-20 watts per hour. This standby consumption can amount to about £12 annually. To eliminate this unnecessary usage, unplug televisions when not in use or use power strips to disconnect multiple devices simultaneously.

Fans

Fans, though seemingly energy-efficient, can contribute approximately £5 monthly to energy bills if used extensively. In cooler months, opt for natural ventilation methods, such as opening windows, to maintain air circulation without incurring additional energy costs.

Additional Energy-Saving Strategies

Beyond managing specific devices, implementing broader energy-saving measures can further reduce consumption:

• Switch to LED Lighting: Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED alternatives can significantly decrease energy usage, as lighting accounts for a notable portion of household energy consumption.

• Install Programmable Thermostats: These devices allow for precise control over heating and cooling systems, ensuring energy is used only when necessary, thus optimizing consumption.

• Unplug Idle Appliances: Many devices draw power even when turned off. Unplugging chargers, kitchen appliances, and other electronics when not in use can prevent this “phantom” energy loss.

• Utilize Natural Light: Maximize the use of daylight during daytime hours to reduce reliance on artificial lighting, thereby conserving energy.

Support and Resources for Pensioners

Recognizing the financial challenges posed by rising energy costs, several programs offer assistance to pensioners:

• Government Grants and Discounts: Various schemes provide financial aid to eligible individuals, helping offset energy expenses.

• Senior Discounts from Utility Providers: Many energy companies offer reduced rates for seniors. Contact your provider to inquire about available discounts and eligibility criteria.

• Priority Services Register: This free service offers additional support to vulnerable customers, including pensioners. Benefits may include advanced notice of planned power cuts and priority support during outages.

Also Read: DWP Owes £500M in Back Pay – Who Qualifies & When Will Payments Be Made?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How can I identify which appliances consume the most energy?

A1: Consider using an energy usage monitor to measure the consumption of various devices. This tool provides real-time data, helping you pinpoint high-energy appliances.

Q2: Are there any financial aids specifically for pensioners struggling with energy bills?

A2: Yes, programs such as the Winter Fuel Payment and the Warm Home Discount Scheme offer financial assistance to eligible pensioners. Contact your energy provider or local council for more information.

Q3: Do energy-efficient appliances make a significant difference in consumption?

A3: Absolutely. Energy-efficient appliances are designed to use less electricity, leading to lower energy bills over time. Investing in such devices can result in long-term savings.

Q4: How does the upcoming energy price increase affect pensioners?

A4: The projected 5% rise in energy prices starting April 2025 will likely increase monthly energy expenses for all consumers, including pensioners. Implementing energy-saving measures can help mitigate this impact.

Q5: What are some simple daily habits to reduce energy consumption?

A5: Simple practices include turning off lights when not in use, unplugging devices, using energy-efficient bulbs, and maximizing natural light during the day.

By proactively managing energy consumption and utilizing available resources, pensioners can navigate the upcoming price increases more effectively and maintain control over their energy expenses.