Households can save £52 on their energy bill just by changing their shower time | Personal Finance | Finance

In a startling revelation, UK households have the potential to slash their shower related expenses in half if they reduce their average eight-minute showers down to a mere four minutes. With electric showers identified as the most expensive main household appliance to run, households are receiving a firm caution ahead of the winter season.

A recent study by cleaning experts Vacuum Wars has disclosed: “The most expensive household appliance to run is an electric shower, with an average running cost of £2.14 per hour. According to Anglian Water, the average Briton spends approximately eight minutes in the shower, meaning showering daily would run up a yearly bill of £104.33 – just for one person.”

They further outlined that “A family of four in the same circumstances could easily add up to an extra £417.32 in electricity costs from showering each year..”

Therefore, shortening shower time to four minutes could enable individuals to bank a saving of £52 amidst the crippling Cost of Living crisis, reports Birmingham Live.

Lifestyle experts at Posh.co.uk also chimed in, advising on the economic benefits of brevity in the bathroom: “Long showers can contribute hugely to energy bills, reducing shower time by one minute on average can save £18 per household in a year. Turning water temperature down ever so slightly can also impact energy bills.”

Christopher White, CEO of Vacuum Wars, has expressed concern over the financial strain caused by everyday household appliances: “The findings from this study highlight that certain household appliances, particularly those used frequently for daily tasks, are some of the most expensive to run in the UK.

“This is especially impactful given the dominance of such appliances in households. These small costs add up over time, creating a significant financial burden for households.”

He suggests several strategies to curb rising costs: “Encouraging more efficient use of appliances, investing in energy-saving models, and adopting alternative methods for everyday tasks could all contribute to lowering energy consumption and ultimately, bringing down household bills. Additionally, increased awareness about the best times to use high-energy appliances, such as during off-peak hours, could reduce costs.”

Alongside him, Andy Ellis from Posh.co.uk offers pragmatic advice to homeowners bracing for the winter months: “Winter can be a difficult time for homeowners, as the festivities and colder evenings often result in higher bills. By considering your energy consumption at home, you can identify effective ways to save throughout the season.”

Ellis presents accessible options for those looking to tighten their belts, “There are simple yet cost effective ways to reduce your energy bills this winter, through insulating rooms and sealing draughts, families can enjoy a warm and comfortable home without the added heating bill to worry about. Maximising the efficiency of your heating when it’s on is essential for families to stay warm during winter without raising energy costs.”