Overview
- New analysis from Quotezone.co.uk estimates that appliances left on standby could add as much as £630 a year, with top offenders including faulty set‑top box recorders, outside lights and extra fridges.
- A separate Electric Radiators Direct survey of 2,000 people found 64% leave devices on standby and 26% do so daily, with expert modelling suggesting the habit can total about £141 a year.
- Utilita’s figures indicate the average home has around 10 unused items left plugged in, with examples such as a baby monitor costing about £32.85 annually if left on continuously.
- Experts recommend switching devices off fully or using smart plugs and timers, while trimming everyday waste like overfilling kettles (about £11 a year) and favoring air fryers over ovens for cheaper cooking.
- The guidance follows Ofgem’s price cap moves, including a 2% rise to £1,775 from 1 October and a further 0.2% adjustment for January to March 2026, which are putting renewed pressure on household bills.