The capacity of a washing machine plays a big role in the cost of running it, with Which? ranking it as the biggest offender.

State pensioners who lost the £300 Winter Fuel Allowance are being urged to consider unplugging six items. The capacity of a washing machine plays a big role in the cost of running it, with Which? ranking it as the biggest offender.

Warning state pensioners who’ve lost the £300 Winter Fuel Allowance to the Labour Party government, Which? explained: “Too small could result in paying extra to run more loads while too big may result in inefficient half-loads. It’s better to wait until you can fill the machine to about 80 per cent full.

“Washing clothes at 30°C is generally fine for clothes that aren’t very dirty and will cut energy use by 38 per cent on average compared to a 40°C wash, and a 20°C wash will use 62 per cent less energy.” Other high-profile offenders were heat pump tumble dryers, dishwashers and built-in ovens.

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Which? found that a condenser tumble dryer costing £210 to buy and £217 per year in electricity costs, might amount to £4,500 over its 20-year lifespan. And Which? experts recommend checking what size will best suit your home before buying a new dishwasher.

Full-size models cost more to run than compact (£60 per year) and slimline (£88.09 per year) versions. Built-in ovens don’t cost as much to run as other key appliances, but it still pays to use them efficiently, the consumer group found.

And freestanding and American fridge greezer models cost £165.36 and £211.84 respectively to run. To ensure your fridge freezer is running as efficiently as possible, clean the condenser coils on the back, as dust on the coils can prevent the fridge from cooling properly. Replace damaged door seals to ensure cold air cannot escape and be wasted and let food cool down completely before refrigerating.

The sixth item is a TV. The larger they are, the more TVs cost to run. Emily Seymour, Which? Energy Editor, said: “Our research shows running costs for common household appliances have risen by a huge amount – putting yet another dent in household finances when so many are feeling the pressures of the cost of living crisis.

“The good news is that there are things you can do to cut back on energy costs linked to these appliances and applying some or all of these tips could make a difference to your bills.”