Many pensioners could be losing money without even realising it, all because of two common devices left switched on.
With energy bills squeezing fixed incomes, experts warn one simple change could make a meaningful difference.
Pensioners throughout Britain are being advised to disconnect two household devices that could be quietly inflating their energy bills by as much as £50 each year.
The guidance emerges as energy expenses continue to strain older households, especially those managing on fixed incomes.
GETTY | The Government has committed to more energy bill support With cooler months ahead, completely switching off these appliances at the plug instead of keeping them on standby could deliver welcome financial relief.
Energy specialists have pinpointed televisions and satellite TV boxes as major culprits for consuming electricity whilst on standby mode.
Gareth Whitehill, Director and Renewable Energy Consultant at Grant Store, has cautioned that these everyday devices use a "surprising amount" of power even when appearing to be switched off.
Whitehill said: "Televisions are among the worst household culprits for standby energy consumption.
"Even when not in use, they can still draw up to 20 watts of electricity. Over the course of a year, that could add around £30 to your energy bill, just for something that isn't even on."
The energy consultant emphasised that this wasteful power consumption occurs continuously when televisions remain plugged in but switched off using remote controls. Many households unknowingly pay for electricity they never actually use.
The £30 annual cost represents a significant expense for pensioners managing tight budgets, particularly when combined with other standby devices throughout the home.
Satellite television boxes present another significant drain on household finances when left in standby mode. These set-top devices from providers like Sky or Virgin Media can add approximately £20 to annual energy bills if not properly switched off.
GETTY | Countless homes waste electricity round the clock for features they seldom utilise
Whitehill said: "The issue with set-top boxes is that many people assume they need to be left on to record or update, but that's rarely necessary unless you're actively using those functions.
"If you're not watching TV, turn both the box and the television off at the plug. It's a simple habit that could save households money and cut unnecessary energy waste."
Many households waste electricity around the clock by keeping devices on for recording features they rarely use.
As living costs continue affecting pensioners and vulnerable households, these straightforward energy-saving measures are attracting increased interest due to their simplicity and impact.
PA | The energy price cap fell in July
Energy specialists additionally suggest examining device settings to minimise standby usage, including enabling eco modes or automatic shutdown functions where available.
"With energy prices still high, these small changes really do add up over time. They're especially useful for those who might not realise how much energy is being drained from devices they're not even using," Whitehill concluded.
The combined £50 annual saving from unplugging just these two devices demonstrates how minor adjustments to daily habits can produce meaningful reductions in household energy expenditure.