Cut energy bills by £300 using these three products found in every home

Households are being encouraged to clean certain appliances in their homes to reduce their energy bills, following research that highlights the hidden cost of hard water. Cleaning experts HG have disclosed that millions of UK homesare dealing with extreme water hardness, which can add £150-£300 a year to energy bills due to limescale build-up.

Hard water, rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, isn't harmful to health but can cause limescale accumulation that wreaks havoc on households. Limescale typically accumulates in appliances such as kettles, boilers, dishwashers and washing machines.

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The longer limescale builds up in these appliances, the more it reduces their efficiency and lifespan by acting as an insulator, meaning it takes longer for appliances to reach their desired temperatures.

It can also block pipes, decrease water pressure, and sometimes cause leaks. For homeowners, hard water can be costly in both time and expense, necessitating a constant battle to keep kitchens, bathrooms, and appliances clean, as well as leading to dry skin and dull hair.

According to British Water, even a thin 1mm layer of limescale on appliances can increase energy consumption by seven to 10 per cent, adding roughly between £150 and £300 to annual energy bills.

Limescale can also shorten the lifespan of essential household appliances by blocking pipes and damaging components such as heating elements, leading to expensive repairs or premature replacements. In addition to this, homeowners may also incur extra costs for potential plumbing services if pipes become blocked.

To eliminate stubborn limescale, experts at HG suggest using a potent yet gentle limescale remover. Begin by applying the product directly to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes – avoid immediate scrubbing as this allows the solution to dissolve the limescale.

For showerheads, taps, and other fixtures, immersing them in a blend of hot water and limescale remover can help dislodge mineral deposits. Always rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward to prevent any residue and ensure gleaming, limescale-free surfaces.

For those grappling with obstinate limescale accumulation, the experts also divulged three lesser-known tips:

Cola

Cola is surprisingly effective due to its acidity and works well in toilet pans. Simply pour a generous amount of cola into the toilet and leave it overnight. Flush the next day and observe as limescale stains vanish.

Tea towel

Another trick involves soaking a tea towel in buttermilk and draping it over areas with limescale build-up. After leaving it to work overnight, the limescale should wipe away effortlessly.

Fabric softener

Lastly, fabric softener can be excellent at removing limescale. Just mix a capful into half a bucket of warm water and use it to wipe tiles affected by limescale. Allow it to sit and absorb before rinsing thoroughly with hot water.

John Zentveld, senior product specialist at HG, said: "Many parts of the UK experience very hard water, we've seen first-hand how persistent limescale can pose various challenges for households. However, it is a problem that varies dramatically by region. That's why we've developed several products specifically designed to tackle even the toughest limescale build-up-because a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn't work when it comes to the many ways limescale can affect the home.

"At HG, we're passionate about helping people keep their homes running smoothly and efficiently. Our expert advice and specially formulated solutions help homeowners extend the lifespan of their appliances, cut down on energy waste, and maintain a sparkling home environment, no matter how hard their water is."