Experts issue £139 'unplug' warning over three common 'vampire devices' in your kitchen

UK households could save £139 annually by unplugging just three 'vampire' kitchen appliances, according to energy firm Utilita. The company's Power List reveals the annual cost of running household appliances, with a toaster costing 10p per use or £38 a year, a microwave costing £17.75 per year and a kettle setting households back a staggering £83 a year.

By using the Power Price list, households can identify the cost of running their appliances and make adjustments to reduce usage and save money - as the so-called 'vampire devices' consume a lot of energy. This comes ahead of the new energy price cap on October 1.

Ofgem reviews the energy price cap every three months, setting a limit on how much can be charged per unit of gas and electricity. From October 1, 2024, a typical household will see their energy costs rise to £1,717 per year, although actual costs will depend on energy usage.

The Standing Charge Levelisation, introduced on April 1, 2024, ensures Pay As You Go and Direct Debit customers pay the same standing charge.

The levelisation allowance adjustment means those on Direct Debit now typically fork out an additional £10 annually, whilst Pay As You Go users can revel in a reduction of approximately £49 per year, a tidy saving of £52 including VAT. In a reassuring move for customers, Utilita has confirmed the absence of any standing charges on its tariffs, reports Birmingham Live.

"Our tariffs have two unit rates (three for economy 7), but none of them have a standing charge So if you don't use any energy, you won't pay a penny - nice!" they announced.