TVs are the most-used electrical system in households on Christmas Day, survey finds

According to a recent survey, televisions are the most utilised electrical devices in homes on Christmas Day, surpassing ovens, kettles, and dishwashers.

The study, which polled 2,000 homeowners who celebrate the festive season, revealed that TVs are switched on for an average of five hours and 41 minutes on Christmas Day, compared to ovens, which are only used for three hours and 30 minutes.

On average, seven electrical appliances are in use throughout the day, with 74% of participants naming the TV as their most relied-upon device. The kettle came in second place (62%), followed by the oven (61%).

Peak energy consumption occurs between 11 a. m. and 1 p. m., with many confessing they would struggle without their TV (42%), kettle (38%), and dishwasher (14%) during the festivities.

Interestingly, 26% stated that Christmas Day is the only time of year when their energy usage peaks at lunchtime rather than in the evening.

This research, commissioned by British Gas, aligns with the company’s PeakSave initiative, which provides customers with half-price electricity between 11 a. m. and 4 p. m. on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

“For some, Christmas Day can mean hustle and bustle with guests arriving, decorations being switched on, music and TV playing and new toys and gadgets to charge,” a spokesperson for British Gas commented.

“The survey results show most people spend the majority of the day in their home or the home of their hosts, using ovens, dishwashers and everything needed to entertain their families and guests,” they added.

The study also shone a light on the broader energy-consuming habits during December. It points out that a hefty 55% bump in electricity usage comes from holiday decorations as people tend to leave their festive lights on for over five hours a day, while 42% of folks watched more TV and movies over the festive period than usual.

Gloomier winter days mean an uptick in lighting use with 58% reported, whereas 34% pointed out they are cooking up a storm for Christmas Day prep, and parents note an 18% rise in energy consumption coinciding with the kiddos being off school.

In pursuit of trimming down the energy bills around the jolly season, a savvy 32% of people have made the switch to LED baubles, while another 22% are ditching the traditional oven in favour of air fryers. Plus, an additional 22% rigged up timers to their lights and decorations to cut down on excessive use.

“To add some festive cheer, we want to give back to our customers again,” chimed in the British Gas spokesperson.

“Our scheme aims to reward our customers with savings when they use energy at off peak times – such as Sundays or holidays when there is a greater amount of renewables available in the UK’s energy system because of lower demand from business and industry,” they added.