Energy saving myths: What actually works this winter?
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31st July 2025
Customers
Energy saving myths: What actually works this winter?
Staying cosy without watching your bills skyrocket can feel like a puzzle. In fact, the Super Smart Energy Savers Report shows that one in four Brits aren’t sure which advice to trust.
So, let’s bust some of the biggest winter energy myths, and swap them for tips that actually work.
The myth-busting hall of fame
🙅 Handwashing beats the dishwasher
Not true. Handwashing can use up to 9x more water and more energy to heat it. Your dishwasher is the eco-champ if you run it full on an eco cycle.
🙅 Keeping heating on low all day saves money
Not true! Your home leaks heat over time, so you’re basically heating the neighbourhood.
🙅 Sleep mode = enough
Sorry, not quite. Gadgets still sip energy while “sleeping.” Switching them fully off is the winner.
Quick Q&As to save cash
🔥 “If I crank the thermostat up, will my house heat faster?”
Myth! Boilers heat at the same rate. Setting it to sauna-level (30°C) just risks waste.
✅ Aim for a comfy 18–21°C instead.
🍽️ “Is handwashing dishes cheaper?”
Myth again. A full dishwasher on eco mode uses less energy and water than a sinkful of hot suds.
✅ Hold out until it’s full, then hit eco.
💡 “Does flicking lights on and off waste power?”
Not anymore. Today’s bulbs barely notice the switch. Leaving them glowing pointlessly costs far more.
✅ Switch them off whenever you leave the room.
Washing machine wins
Want to pocket an extra £24 a year? Try these:
- Wash at 30°C instead of hotter cycles.
- Cut out just one wash a week.
- Always fill the drum – or use a half-load setting.
Cosy hacks that don’t cost a penny
🪟 Close curtains at dusk to trap heat.
🚪 Block draughts sneaking in around doors and windows.
🛋️ Keep radiators clear (your sofa doesn’t need heating).
🧣 Add jumpers and blankets before bumping up the thermostat.
Energy saving doesn’t need to be confusing – or boring.
Small tweaks really do add up. By ditching the myths and sticking to what works, you’ll stay warm, waste less, and save money this winter.
