HOUSEHOLDS should wait until certain times to do their laundry to cut their energy bills this winter.
Energy regulator Ofgem will increase the energy price cap to £3,549 from October 1, adding £1,578 to the average household bill.
And energy experts at Cornwall Insight have suggested that bills will hit £4,266 from January.
However, those on a time-sensitive energy tariff could save if they stick to doing their washing later in the evening.
And with as a typical UK household does 270 loads of washing a year, it's important people save where they can.
Reducing the amount of energy you use around the house will help to bring your bills down.
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You could pay less if you switch to an Economy 7 tariff, which charges less for energy used at night.
However, if you do switch, keep an eye on your usage, as you could end up spending more if you use a lot of energy in the day time.
Bear in mind that leaving electrical appliances on at night can be a fire hazard, so make sure you're awake while the machine is running.
We explain when is best to wash your clothes and the other hacks to help you save money on your energy bills.
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How much does it cost to run a washing machine?
It costs the average washing machine 28p to run a one hour long cycle.
Ovo estimates that a 6-litre washing machine uses around 1kWh of energy for an hour-long cycle.
Right now, the typical household is paying 28p per kWh for electricity, as set out by Ofgem under the April price cap.
That means it costs about 28p for an hour long cycle when you put on your washing machine.
If you did this three times a week, it would cost you £43.68 a year.
However, Ofgem says that from October 1, the typical household will pay 52p per kWh for electricity.
So doing the same hour long cycle on your machine could cost an extra 24p a time.
When should I put my laundry on?
You could save money depending what tariff you're on and if your energy supplier charges more or less for your electricity at different times of the day.
The most expensive time to wash your clothes is between 4pm and 7pm.
You could save cash if you're on an Economy 7 or off-peak tariff by putting your load on during less busy times of the day.
MoneySavingExpert said that in the past you could be charged as little as 8p per kWh for an off-peak electricity rate if you're on certain tariffs.
That means these customers could shave money off their bill just by washing at night.
However, be warned – leaving household appliances on at night while you're asleep could be a fire risk, so make sure you're awake.
How else can I cut washing machine bills?
Which? recently found that doing one big wash four times a week reduces energy consumption by 17% compared to someone doing three smaller washes every day.
Switching to 30 degree washes will save you £12 a year, according to Energy Saving Trust.
While setting it to a high speed spin could save you £40, according to British Gas engineer Joanna Flowers.
How else can I save money on my energy bills?
If you're struggling with your energy bills, there is help available.
Your first step should be to contact your energy supplier.
It may be able to change your payment plan or check if you're eligible for their hardship fund.
For example, British Gas and Octopus have both set up funds to help customers who are struggling with their bills.
You should also check that you're getting all the benefits you're entitled to.
Use an online benefits calculator to make sure you're not missing out on any extra cash.
Similarly, you can search for grants that can help you pay for gas and electricity bills.
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The government recently announced an extension to the Household Support Fund to help families with the rising cost of living.
Contact your local council to find out what support is available in your area.
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