Exact washing machine temperature that could save you 38% on energy bills

Brits are bracing for a spike in energy bills this winter, with Ofgem's price cap set to rise by 2% from October 1 to December 31. However, money-saving specialists have a simple tip that could ease the strain on your wallet.

In 2024, Which? consumer experts identified the 'exact temperature' for washing clothes to trim down energy costs. Their research showed that washing at a specific temperature can run your machine '38% cheaper'.

According to the Daily Record, they explained: "Using appliances efficiently is also a good way to save money as many, including washer dryers and condenser tumble dryers, are costly to use.

"To save money, do laundry at 30 degrees instead of 40 as it makes it 38% cheaper, according to Which?'s tests. Stacking dishwashers efficiently so that every item gets cleaned well - and only running the machine when it is full - will also shave a few more pounds off your bills."

And Which? certainly isn't the only one sharing this view. Salah Sun, head of product marketing at Beko, echoed similar advice too, adding: "To get the most out of your washing machine, you'll want to make sure you're using the right cycle for what you need.

"You won't always need the highest temperature setting, which is ideal for heavily soiled items, you might be able to use a cooler temperature (and less energy) if you separate your laundry correctly.

"The right machine for you can save you money too, with an A-rated machine saving you up to £528 across its lifetime." Understanding your washing machine's energy rating could also help you gauge just how efficient it really is.

While A-rated appliances provide the highest efficiency and use the least energy, G-rated machines are at the opposite end of the spectrum. Usually, this information can be found on the side of your washing machine.

Sun continued: "A washing machine at a B grade would be more efficient than a B oven, for example, as a washing machine's ratings run from A to G, whereas an oven's energy rating will run from A+++ to D. Knowing this difference can save you from buying what you believe to be an energy-efficient product, which isn't."

He later added: "Whether you're focusing more on switching standby off or you're finding appliances with the best energy ratings, every little helps when it comes to saving money at the moment.

"It is important that, even without your smart meter, you know how much each appliance is costing you and how to get the most for your money while they're running."