Air Fryer vs Oven – which one’s eating up your energy bill?

As energy costs continue to climb, it’s no surprise that many households are paying closer attention to their daily energy consumption—and rightly so. While heating accounts for around 40% of the average household’s energy bill, the appliances we use every day also contribute more than you might expect.

At Pilgrims Sales and Lettings, we’re committed to helping you make smart, informed choices in your home—whether you're moving in, moving on, or simply trying to cut back on rising costs. Here’s our breakdown of the most energy-hungry household appliances, along with tips to reduce usage and save money.
 

High-energy appliances

These appliances tend to use the most energy and can drive your bills up—especially with frequent use:

• Electric Shower – Approx. £2.20 per hour
  Annual use could total £315 or more.
• Electric Oven – Around £1.10 per cooking cycle
  Daily use might cost over £400 a year.
• Air Fryer – About £0.68 per use
  A more efficient alternative to the oven, saving around £150 annually.
• Portable Heater – £0.49 per hour
  Regular winter use can total around £238 per year.
• Hair Dryer – £0.49 per hour
  Short use adds up to approximately £60 per year.

Medium-energy appliances

Still worth keeping an eye on—especially when used frequently:

• Iron & Tumble Dryer – Around £0.34 per hour
  A typical tumble dryer can cost up to £131 annually.
• Toaster & Coffee Machine – £0.27–£0.28 per hour
  Combined, these small appliances can add roughly £100 per year.
• Vacuum Cleaner – £0.21 per hour
  With occasional use, it costs around £15 annually.
• Dishwasher – £0.14 per hour
  Efficient models can cost as little as £60 per year—often less than handwashing.
• Washing Machine – £0.08 per hour
  With regular but smart use, this comes to about £38 annually.

 Low-energy appliances

These appliances offer great convenience with minimal energy impact:

• Electric Blanket – £0.04 per hour
  Even with extended winter use, it only costs around £89 per year, far cheaper than heating an entire room.
• Microwave – Approx. £0.04 per cooking cycle
  Efficient and cost-effective, with annual costs under £50.
• Computer, Games Console & TV – £0.02–£0.03 per hour
  Depending on usage, annual costs range from £15 to £41.
• Fridge-Freezer – £0.03 per hour, running 24/7
  Newer models can cost just £57 per year.
• Internet Router & Smart Speaker –
  Combined cost is typically under £20 annually, even when left on continuously.

Simple tips to cut energy use

At Pilgrims Sales and Lettings, we believe in practical changes that bring real savings. Try these strategies:

1. Choose energy-efficient appliances

• Opt for A-rated (or better) models.
• Upgrading from a G-rated to A-rated appliance could save hundreds over its lifetime.

2. Use appliances smarter

• Run washing machines and dishwashers only when full.
• Use eco modes and avoid standby—switch off at the plug.
• Boil only the water you need in kettles.

3. Rethink cooking habits

• For smaller meals, use the microwave or air fryer instead of the oven.
• Batch cook when using the oven to maximise efficiency.

4. Improve lighting & fridge settings

• Switch to LED bulbs—they use 80% less energy.
• Keep fridge at 3–5°C and freezers at -18°C for optimal efficiency.

5. Tech use = smart use

• Laptops use 85% less power than desktop PCs.
• Tablets are even more efficient—costing under £2 a year.
• Smaller TV screens use significantly less energy.

6. Seasonal adjustments

• Use electric blankets for warmth over heating full rooms.
• Avoid overusing portable heaters or fans.

Whether you're settling into a new property or looking to reduce your current energy usage, understanding how your appliances affect your bills is a great place to start. Energy-efficient choices not only benefit your wallet but contribute to a greener future, too.

Always check with your energy provider for exact costs based on your tariff, as figures here are averages and may vary.



Source: Rightmove