Brits consider washing machines and ovens the most confusing kitchen appliances

Nearly half (48%) of adults admit to not changing the settings on their kitchen appliances due to fear of what might happen.

A study of 2,000 Brits revealed 44 per cent stick to what they are used to because they know the results, while 43 per cent believe in an ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ approach.

While 20 per cent don’t have a clue what the other settings do so just ignore them entirely, using no more than two programmes.

55% feel overwhelmed by all the labels and logos on their home appliances.

Akin Garzanli, from at Arçelik, the parent company of Beko which commissioned the research, said: “Our data has revealed striking insight into attitudes and habits within households in the UK, showing that while energy efficiency is a key priority for many there is a discrepancy in how appliances are actually used in the home.

“In recent years, there have been major advances in home technologies and many appliances today have features and settings that enable them to be used in a more energy efficient manner.

“It’s important for us that our customers feel supported and confident about the full range of their appliance settings.”

The study also showed that 52 percent of those who used the wrong setting on their white appliances ended up with a wash that lasted for hours, shrinked clothes, or even damaged their appliances.

47 percent only occasionally learn about the instructions for a new device.

Avoid falling for the trap

It was also revealed that only one-fifth of all respondents could confidently claim that all their home appliances are energy efficient.

Those who disagreed blamed the fact that they bought them long ago and the rating system changing or losing the paperwork that would explain it.

However, 76% of respondents said it was important that their white goods are energy-efficient. Only 32% leave gadgets on chargers for longer than they should.

57% of those surveyed admitted to overfilling their refrigerators, which can be wasteful and costly.

According to OnePoll data, 67% of respondents have prioritized energy efficiency when purchasing a new product like a washing machine.

The survey also revealed that 55% of respondents intend to replace older appliances with more efficient options within the next 12 months. Top on the list were washing machines, fridges, and ovens.

Akin Garzanli, from Beko’s parent company, added: “It is great to see from the research that while many fall into the trap of sticking to what they know with appliance settings and old habits, there is a clear appetite to improve such behaviours moving forward.”

Brits list of most confusing kitchen appliances

1. Washing machine
2. Microwave
3. Dishwasher
4. Oven
5. Freezer
6. Tumble dryer
7. Fridge
8. Coffee machine