Simple household adjustments can ease energy strain during heatwaves

Small routine changes in summer appliance use can boost efficiency, cut costs, and reduce grid stress as heatwaves intensify, experts advise.

During heatwaves, electricity demand rises sharply and household appliances are put under greater strain. Practical changes in daily use can improve efficiency, reduce wear and help equipment last longer, according to Gândul and advice collated by El Economista. Manuel Royo, marketing director at Beko Europe in Spain, said summer conditions make appliances work harder, but that small routine adjustments can improve performance without forcing households to change their habits.

One of the simplest measures is to be more disciplined with the refrigerator. The less often the door is opened, the less cold air escapes and the less energy the appliance needs to recover the right temperature. Gândul also advises against placing hot food inside and recommends arranging items so air can circulate freely. Keeping the fridge away from ovens, direct sunlight and other heat sources also reduces the workload. Similar seasonal guidance from energy providers in the United States and Australia stresses that keeping cooling equipment out of unnecessary thermal stress is one of the most effective summer savings measures.

Washing machines also become more heavily used in summer because of beachwear, sports kit and holiday laundry. The key is to run full loads when fabric type allows it. That improves water and electricity efficiency without affecting wash quality, provided the drum is not overloaded. Energy specialists cited in the related summaries also recommend using household appliances more strategically at peak demand periods, with the broader aim of lowering bills and reducing strain on the grid.

Cooking habits matter too. If the oven is in use, opening the door repeatedly causes heat loss and forces the appliance to work harder to maintain temperature. Gândul says it is also worth making use of residual heat by switching the oven off a few minutes before cooking ends, a practice that can save energy on many recipes. The advice aligns with other summer efficiency guidance, which encourages households to manage indoor heat more carefully and avoid unnecessary cooling costs.

Basic maintenance is another factor that is often overlooked. Cleaning refrigerator seals, checking extractor hood filters and using self-clean cycles on ovens can help appliances operate more efficiently for longer. Good airflow is also essential. Appliances should not be boxed in, and ventilation grilles should remain unobstructed so heat can dissipate properly. That is especially important for refrigerators and freezers, which are among the hardest-working devices in the home during extreme heat.