Energy saving myths pervade many UK households

This finding is part of an energy saving mythbusting survey commissioned by the Energy Saving Trust as part of Big Energy Saving Week, which highlights the perceptions of the UK public and how they don't always match the reality of the energy saving action.

The survey of 2067 adults also found that 30% think screensavers on computers save energy and 45% think that switched-off electrical appliances don't use electricity when they're plugged in.

Nearly half (48%) agreed that it's a hassle to change energy suppliers.

However, on other issues the survey showed the public had a better understanding of energy saving. Just 27% said turning up their thermostat to a high setting heats the home faster, compared to 54% that correctly said the statement was false.

Three quarters know that energy saving light bulbs are compatible with traditional light bulb fittings while 66% know that more heat is lost through the roof than the walls of the home.  69% know that solar panels will work during daylight hours regardless of whether the sun is shining, with only 10% disagreeing.

Energy Saving Trust Chief Executive Phillip Sellwood says: "We know it's important for the UK public to stay warm and cosy in their homes. But for the majority the most cost-effective way to do this is to turn the heating on and off or up and down when required rather than leaving it on all day at a lower temperature. This ensures that heat is not wasted and that your home will be at a comfortable temperature."

According to figures from the Energy Saving Trust, the UK could collectively save nearly 4.4 billion on energy bills if householders took three energy saving actions in the home. These are: turn off lights, chargers and appliances when not in use; turn down the thermostat by a degree or two; and use LED lighting instead of halogens.
 
Big Energy Saving Week takes place between Monday 27 and Friday 31 January, with the week aiming to raise awareness of energy and efficiency issues among the UK public.

The week has taken place twice previously and is funded by the largest six energy companies, with involvement from Citizens Advice Bureau, Energy Saving Trust, Age UK, ACRE (Action with Communities in Rural England), Consumer Futures, the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC), Ofgem, Energy UK and National Energy Action.