With energy bills forecasted to rise by another £85 to £1,823 in April 2025, state pensioners are being encouraged to take proactive steps to reduce their electricity usage. The price hike comes after previous increases of 10% in October and 1.2% in January, making it essential for pensioners to cut unnecessary energy consumption wherever possible.
Many pensioners have already faced a challenging winter with the loss of the £300 winter fuel payment and a separate £300 cost of living payment. To combat rising costs, unplugging certain high-energy-consuming devices can help save significant amounts each month.
What Are the Five Devices State Pensioners Should Unplug to Save Money?
Reducing energy usage starts with identifying appliances that consume electricity even when not in active use. Here are the five most expensive devices to keep running and why unplugging them is crucial:
1. Air Conditioning Units
Air conditioning units can use up to 2 kWh per hour, costing around 26p per unit. Running an aircon for four hours daily can add more than £60 to your monthly bill. Unless powered by solar panels, switching to traditional heating systems is far more economical.
2. Hot Tubs
While keeping a hot tub warm around the clock seems convenient, it’s costly. A constantly heated hot tub can use up to 2.5 kWh per day, adding about £150 per month to your bill. Turning it off and heating it only when needed can save hundreds annually.
3. Garden Water Features
A garden water feature may seem harmless but can add approximately 30p a day, or £10 per month, to your energy costs. Over the year, that’s an unnecessary £120 spent on running water features. Switching to solar-powered options can eliminate this expense.
4. Televisions (On Standby)
Modern smart TVs remain connected to Wi-Fi even when switched off, consuming power for updates and background processes. Leaving a TV on standby can cost around £12 annually—money spent on nothing if it’s not in use. Switching it off at the wall prevents this waste.
5. Electric Fans
Even during the winter, many people use electric fans for air circulation. However, running a fan can add up to £5 a month to energy bills. Opening a window for ventilation is a much cheaper alternative during colder months.
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How Can Unplugging Devices Help Combat the April 2025 Energy Price Rise?
By unplugging these five devices, state pensioners can significantly reduce their electricity consumption ahead of the April 2025 5% price increase. With energy bills expected to reach an average of £1,823, every pound saved matters.
Regularly reviewing household appliance usage and switching off unnecessary devices can lead to monthly savings of £80 or more, which adds up over the year.
What Other Energy-Saving Tips Can Pensioners Follow?
Aside from unplugging devices, pensioners can consider these practical energy-saving tips:
- Switch to LED bulbs: Reduces lighting costs by up to 75%.
- Install draft excluders: Prevents heat loss, lowering heating bills.
- Use energy-efficient appliances: Look for A++ rated appliances when replacing old ones.
- Lower thermostat settings: Reducing room temperature by just 1°C can save approximately £150 per year.
- Utilize off-peak tariffs: Run washing machines and dishwashers during cheaper nighttime hours.
Why Is Energy Saving Crucial for State Pensioners in 2025?
With energy prices climbing and essential benefits like the winter fuel payment restricted to qualifying individuals, pensioners are facing mounting financial pressure. Proactively managing energy use isn’t just about saving money—it’s about maintaining affordability during a period of rising living costs.
FAQs
What date will the energy price rise take effect?
The energy price hike is scheduled for April 2025, increasing bills by an average of £85.
How much can I save by unplugging these five devices?
By switching off devices like aircon units and hot tubs, you can save over £80 per month on your energy bill.
Why do devices on standby still use electricity?
Standby devices, like smart TVs, stay connected to Wi-Fi and continue background processes, consuming energy even when not actively used.
Should I turn off my water feature if it’s solar-powered?
Solar-powered water features use no mains electricity, so they’re fine to keep running. Wired models should be switched off to save money.
Are hot tubs really that expensive to run?
Yes, a hot tub left on 24/7 can cost up to £150 monthly. Turning it on only when needed is much more cost-effective.
How does using LED bulbs help save money?
LED bulbs use less electricity and last longer, reducing both energy bills and replacement costs.
Is it worth switching to off-peak electricity tariffs?
Absolutely. Running major appliances during off-peak hours can significantly cut down on your energy expenses.
What other support is available for pensioners struggling with energy bills?
You may be eligible for additional support through Pension Credit or local council energy grants. Contact your local authority for more details.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
