Brits terrible at 'guesstimating' household energy use - but 1 thing could help

Brits terrible at 'guesstimating' household energy use - but 1 thing could helpMore than half of Brits say that being able to estimate accurately would help them to plan more effectively and manage UK household energy costsCommentsMoneyVicky Duncan14:35, 22 Apr 2026Denise Van Outen asks Londoners to guess energy usages Predicting the weather and guessing someone's age rank among the most challenging estimations for Brits, according to new research. A poll of 2,000 adults revealed that many people also struggle when attempting to 'guesstimate' how much paint they'll require when redecorating (25%) and the amount of energy their household consumes daily (21%).‌The survey uncovered that just 13% correctly estimated that it costs 1-2p to boil an electric kettle for a cuppa. A mere 14% were aware that a 10-minute shower uses between 100-150 litres of water. This guesswork carries a real price tag – with Brits confessing to wasting food (27%) and receiving a higher bill than anticipated (21%).‌View 2 ImagesMost adults underestimated the amount of energy used in everyday tasks(Image: PinPep)‌Two thirds said that being able to estimate accurately would help them plan more effectively, avoid waste (56%) and cut stress (52%). Half believe that having more precise information would help them forecast their costs, bills and outgoings.The research established that energy bills would be the most valuable thing to have accurate information about (38%), underlining the shortcomings of guesswork when it comes to household expenditure.The study was commissioned by Smart Energy GB, which joined forces with TV and theatre star Denise Van Outen to demonstrate how reliable information can help households keep on top of their finances.‌"Loads of us rely on guesswork for things like cooking or housework but there are areas in life where being accurate is really important." Denise said."For me, having a smart meter takes away that uncertainty whe...