Homeowners who want to save on their energy bills may need to make sacrifices for the forthcoming World Cup.
Every four years, usually around the time of the FIFA World Cup, television sales enjoy a strong period.
Indeed, during recent years the innovations in technology mean that football fans want to enjoy the beautiful game through a new gadget.
For example, in 2006 it was the first tournament to be broadcast in high definition with the BBC and ITV screening matches on dedicated channels.
This year, 3D television is starting to take shape and the World Cup is no different.
Sony has secured rights to film every one of the 64 games in 3D. Digital broadcaster ESPN will screen 25 matches in 3D on its dedicated sports channel.
However, an agreement between the government and eight of the UK leading retailers, who sell around 50 per cent of the nation's TVs between them, will see new efficiency standards introduced a year early, Energy Choices has reported.
The best way to save on
home energy bills is to select a TV recommended by the Energy Savings Trust (EST).
Its most efficient choice costs around £33 per year. Compare that to one of the least efficient 42-inch sets that can set you back more than £69 per year.
Furthermore, the average TV (£42 per year) costs £4 a year more than a high-quality fridge freezer.
EST chief executive Philip Sellwood can almost certainly read the minds of football fans who do make such energy savings.
"This World Cup, each football fan buying a new Energy Saving Recommended 42-inch LCD TV instead of the worst performing model could save enough cash to buy themselves the brand new England away shirt and a celebratory, or consolatory, pint down the pub," he added.
Slight lack of confidence in England's chances aside, EST does urge people to shop wisely when heading to buy a new television.
It is not only asking homeowners and football fans to think about the significant emissions from a poorly performing TV, but the amount of money leaking away means they should substitute it for more efficient models.
