As energy bills rise across the nation this winter, homeowners are searching for ways to cut costs.

While many focus on turning down the heating or limiting heating usage altogether, an expert has shared how using appliances at certain times could reduce bills.

According to one expert, the timing of when the dishwasher is run could actually make a “significant difference” to monthly bills.

Llewellyn Kinch, energy expert at MakeMyHouseGreen, said: “People often underestimate how much energy is consumed by household appliances during peak hours.

“By adjusting the timing of your dishwasher cycle, you can reduce costs without changing your overall energy usage.”

To make the best savings, the energy pro recommended avoiding using the dishwasher during peak hours when energy is most expensive.

Instead, aim to use it during off-peak hours, typically when fewer people are using electricity and rates are lower.

The expert said: “One of the best times to run your dishwasher is after 10pm when electricity demand has significantly decreased.

“Many UK energy providers offer Time-of-Use (TOU) tariffs meaning that energy prices drop late at night, making it an ideal time for energy-intensive appliances.”

For those who prefer to get things done in the morning, the period before 7am also falls within these off-peak hours.

Running the dishwasher early in the morning allows households to avoid the morning energy rush, helping to lower costs.

It’s recommended to avoid peak hours which tend to be between 4pm and 9pm, when households are cooking dinner, and generally using more appliances.

The pro noted: “Using your dishwasher during off-peak hours can result in substantial savings over time.

“Many energy providers in the UK have peak pricing structures, so if you’re using your appliances during those high-demand times, you could be paying for more than you need to.”

Off-peak hours vary depending on providers, so make sure to check your bills or provider’s website to check when these are.

Households can also use these off-peak hours to use other appliances, such as washing machines and tumble dryers.