The tumble dryer is known for using a lot of energy
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite, people are being encouraged to use their tumble dryers during specific times to save on energy bills. Tumble dryers are among the most energy-consuming appliances in our homes, and with the cold and wet weather here to stay, we often have no choice but to use these devices to dry our clothes.
However, consumer champion Which? has provided some tips on how to operate tumble dryers more economically. According to Which?, cheaper off-peak electricity is typically available after 10pm and before 8am.
If you’re at home and awake during these hours, it would be a more cost-effective time to use your tumble dryer. Consider putting a load in before you go to bed or in the morning before work.
Which? also suggests looking out for promotions from your energy company, such as British Gas’s PeakSave, which offers some smart meter customers 50% off electricity between 11am and 4pm on Sundays. If you can delay your tumble drying until a certain day, this could be an effective way to dry your clothes for less.
When using a tumble dryer, it’s also advisable not to overfill it, as it won’t work efficiently if the air can’t circulate freely. According to Which?, when testing tumble dryers, they only fill them to 70% of their rated cottons capacity.