UK households rely on a plethora of appliances, from dishwashers and washing machines to kettles. Yet running these household staples isn't always cost-effective, especially when misused, leading to heftier energy bills.
Industry specialists at Hotpoint have shared some everyday errors that consumers make with their appliances, which can be costly in the long run. Among the common slip-ups is the excessive use of detergent in washing machines, reports the Express.
Hotpoint's Vivien Fodor, laundry category and TM lead, commented: "Many people guesstimate when adding laundry detergent to their machine, but this can lead to problems down the road.
"Overusing detergent can leave residue on your clothes, clog your machine's pipes, and can even cause serious issues in terms of blockages deeper in the system."
Adhering to the detergent packaging instructions is key to preventing pricey maintenance issues. A frequent mistake is neglecting fridge door seals checks, a crucial yet oft-ignored aspect of refrigerator upkeep, as pointed out by Kevin Merck, refrigeration category and TM lead at Hotpoint.
Merck highlighted: "If cold air escapes, the appliance has to work overtime to maintain its temperature, which can shorten its lifespan significantly and will drive up your energy bills as well. To test the seals, close the door on a piece of paper. If it slips out easily, the seals may need replacing. Keeping the seals in good condition is a simple way to help your fridge freezer run smoothly and avoid extra costs."
It's also crucial not to use abrasive cleaners on hobs, as these can actually cause permanent damage to surfaces. Zimbini Nkonjera, cooking category manager at Hotpoint, said: "Scratches not only ruin the appearance of your kitchen surfaces but also affect how efficiently your hob can distribute heat, particularly on glass hobs.
"Instead you should opt for cleaning products that have been designed specifically for your oven and hob area."
Not only does this remove the risk of damage, but it also ensures you're not introducing harmful chemicals to the places where you prepare and cook food.
