UK households told to unplug fridges in August | Personal Finance | Finance

UK households have been told to turn off their fridges this month. Brits going on holiday might want to cut power to the kitchen appliance if it does not have food inside in order to save money, Gordon Wallis, energy expert at Your NRG said. This is because it could unnecessarily increase energy use while they are away.

Mr Wallis said: “Most people do a quick check before leaving for holiday, making sure the windows are shut and the doors are locked, but they often forget about the appliances that will continue running while nobody is home.

“If you’ve got an old second fridge or drinks fridge in the garage that’s barely being used, leaving it switched on for a week or two while you’re away is simply wasting energy. If it’s empty, switch it off, unplug it and leave the door slightly ajar to prevent mould.” The advice is different if families have food they’d like to keep cold while on their trip.

The specialist added: “Your main fridge-freezer should generally remain switched on if it contains food, but it’s worth checking the temperature before you leave.

“Setting it colder than necessary won’t keep food fresher for longer – it simply increases electricity use.

“For most households, keeping your fridge between 3°C and 5°C and your freezer at around -18°C is enough to keep food safe while using energy efficiently.”

Mr Wallis also said that that there are several other appliances people should bear in mind before locking up their home.

He said: “Televisions, games consoles, printers, coffee machines and microwave displays all continue using small amounts of electricity when left on standby.

“Individually the savings might seem small, but if you’re away for two weeks there’s no reason to leave them drawing power.

“It’s also worth unplugging chargers that aren’t being used.

“They consume very little electricity on their own, but it’s an easy habit that helps cut unnecessary energy use.”

He added: “A few simple checks before you head off can help reduce unnecessary energy use while your home is sitting empty.

“It won’t transform your annual bill overnight, but every bit helps, particularly during the summer holiday season when many households are away for a week or more.”