Declaring war on power guzzlers

Many people are currently paying more than twice as much for their electricity consumption than a year ago. Due to the rise in energy prices, many owners and tenants are looking for ways to reduce their energy consumption. But what are the biggest energy guzzlers and what can be done about them?

If you want to reduce energy costs, there is no getting around saving electricity. Two factors are mainly responsible for high energy consumption: firstly, household appliances that constantly draw power, such as refrigerators and freezers, as well as appliances that are operated in stand-by mode. Secondly, old appliances that still have poor energy efficiency are major power guzzlers.

Permanent power consumption

Energy experts recommend being more conscious of electricity consumption, even if it means sacrificing a little convenience. They advise switching off stand-by devices completely or, where this is not possible, disconnecting them from the power supply. Either by unplugging them or using multiple sockets with toggle switches that switch them off when they are not in use. This is particularly useful at night.

For appliances that have to draw electricity permanently, such as refrigerators and freezers, you should check whether they really need to be set as cold as they are. For most foods, 8 degrees Celsius is sufficient. These appliances also consume more electricity when they are iced up. Regular defrosting is therefore advisable here.

What is also often overlooked is that many appliances also draw power as long as they are plugged into the socket, even though they do not actually have a standby mode. This can be the case with an electric shaver or a drill, for example. Chargers also continue to draw power even though no smartphone is connected.

High power consumption due to old appliances

As outdated appliances usually lack modern, good energy efficiency, experts advise replacing them gradually. This can save a lot of electricity costs in the long term. At the same time, you should look out for energy-saving labels and a high energy efficiency rating such as A+++ when buying new appliances.

Electricity costs can also be reduced when cooking. An induction or gas hob consumes the least energy. With an electric hob, hotplates can be switched off earlier as you can continue cooking for longer with the residual heat.

Tumble dryers are also real power guzzlers. Leaving laundry to dry on the line or on a clothes horse can have a significant impact on your wallet.

Would you like to know how an energy-efficient refurbishment affects the value of your property? Get in touch with us! We will be happy to advise you.

Notes

For reasons of better readability, the generic masculine is used in this text. Female and other gender identities are explicitly included where this is necessary for the statement.

Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice in individual cases. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your specific individual case.

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