With winter laundry piling up, many UK households are searching for ways to cut the high cost of using energy-guzzling appliances like tumble dryers. According to experts, a simple change in routine could lead to substantial savings.
The Cheapest Time to Tumble Dry
Specialists at Home Feeling have pinpointed the most economical window for operating your tumble dryer. The optimal time to run the appliance is between 10pm and 5am. During these overnight hours, electricity demand across the national grid is typically lower, which often translates to cheaper unit rates.
The experts explain that this period coincides with when most people are asleep and not performing domestic chores, leading to reduced pressure on the energy system. Electricity prices in the UK fluctuate throughout the day, commonly spiking during daytime peak hours and again around 5pm when households return home and start using multiple appliances.
Safety First: A Crucial Warning
While shifting your drying schedule to off-peak times can cut costs, a vital safety warning accompanies this advice. You should never leave a tumble dryer running unattended, due to the significant fire hazard it presents.
This means operating the machine overnight while you are asleep is strongly discouraged. The safety of your household is not worth the risk for the sake of saving money. A safer alternative is to use the dryer in the early morning, before 8am, which also falls within many suppliers' off-peak periods.
"On top of this, off-peak electricity is also available between the hours of 10pm and 8am, which can make all the difference when running your tumble dryer," the Home Feeling expert added. Simply setting your alarm an hour earlier to start a load could be a secure way to reduce expenses.
Additional Tips for Efficient Drying
Beyond timing, there are other effective methods to make your tumble dryer more cost-efficient. Since running time directly impacts cost, reducing the drying duration is key.
Throwing a dry towel in with your damp washing is a popular hack. The towel absorbs excess moisture, which can shorten the cycle and make the appliance work more efficiently.
Furthermore, consider the location of your dryer. Placing it in a warmer, well-ventilated area of your home, rather than a cold cupboard or shed, means it uses less energy to heat up at the start of each cycle.
Ultimately, the potential savings from off-peak drying depend on your specific energy tariff. Householders are advised to review their energy bill or contact their supplier directly to confirm if their plan offers cheaper rates at night and how they can best take advantage.
