We all love household appliances that make our lives easier or a bit more comfortable, but some of our most loved gadgets and appliances can contribute significantly to our energy bills. If you’d like to know how to improve your energy efficiency, we’ve compiled a list of 19 appliances guaranteed to increase your energy usage.
Air Conditioning Systems
In hot climates, air conditioning can account for up to 50% of electricity bills, especially if the thermostat is set significantly lower than the outside temperature. Energy use can also increase by up to 8% for each degree lower you set the thermostat.
Electric Water Heaters
According to Direct Energy, “In the average home, the hot water heater is responsible for about 17 percent of the total energy use.” Homes that use 41 gallons or less of water per day should consider switching from a storage tank heater to a tankless heater, as this can be 24–34% more efficient.
Washing Machines
Washing machines can be a significant drain on energy, but there are a few things you can do to reduce this cost. Washing in cold water can save up to 90% of the energy used per load in comparison to hot water washing, and if you’re in the market for a new machine, opt for a front-loading version, which is generally more efficient.
Pool Pumps
In homes with a pool, the pumps are often the largest energy consumers on the property. Make sure you have the right pump for your pool size, and consider reducing pump time if you can. Also, by regularly cleaning filters and using a pool cover, you can reduce the energy consumption of the pump.
Clothes Dryers
According to EnergySage, homes that run a dryer three times per week will spend an average of $66.41 per year. Make sure your dryer is as efficient as possible by regularly cleaning the vents and removing lint after each cycle.
Home Entertainment Systems
Large TVs and gaming consoles can consume significant energy, especially if they’re left on standby mode when not in use. The consumption varies depending on the model and usage, but some consoles can use as much energy as a refrigerator.
Computer and Office Equipment
In a typical home, computers, printers, and other office gadgets are often left on standby. This cost can accumulate and end up accounting for a significant portion of the energy bill. Next time you need to replace a computer, take a look at energy ratings and consider opting for a laptop, which can consume up to 80% less energy than a desktop.
Space Heaters
Using a heater in one room rather than heating the entire house can increase energy bills. Ideal Home says, “For every unit of heat put out by an electric heater, it will cost around three times as much as a unit of heat from one of your radiators.”
Electric Blankets
Electric blankets can significantly increase a household’s energy consumption, particularly if used at high temperatures or throughout the night. While they generally cost less than heating the whole house, the amount can still add up, so it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your usage.
Dehumidifiers
Those living in hot climates or damp spaces can run dehumidifiers frequently, and this can accumulate to a substantial amount of electricity used. Try to only use them when necessary to save money, and when you look to replace your existing ones, look for energy-efficient models.
Refrigerators and Freezers
Refrigerators are among the top three energy-consuming household appliances, and some older models can use up to three times more electricity than newer, more energy-efficient models. This is Money recommends you check “that no cool air is escaping from your fridge from a faulty seal. Seals are often the first component of a fridge to wear down and break.”
Ovens and Stoves
Electric ovens usually consume more energy than gas models and will usually use 2 to 3 times more energy than a toaster oven or microwave for small meals. When using the oven, try to open the door as little as possible, and pop lids on pots when using the stove to save energy.
Hot Tubs and Spas
Heating water for hot tubs and spas is highly energy intensive so it’s important to do what you can to make them as efficient as possible. Make sure you cover the hot tub when it’s not in use to retain the heat and maintain pumps and filters regularly.
Central Vacuum Systems
Central vacuum systems may be convenient, but they generally consume more energy than standard vacuum cleaners, especially when used frequently or inefficiently. To conserve energy, make sure to regularly clean and maintain your vacuum and choose energy-efficient models where possible.
Lighting Systems
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, “lighting accounted for about 6% (81 billion kilowatt hours [kWh]) of electricity consumption in U.S. homes.” Switching to LED bulbs can save you money, as they use 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting.
Saunas
Using an electric sauna for an extended period of time, or frequently, can lead to a considerable electric bill. The energy consumption varies based on the size of the sauna, the temperature setting, and how you use it, but make sure to insulate the sauna properly and monitor usage to keep the cost down.
Home Security Systems
Continuous monitoring features in some home security systems can contribute to high energy consumption. Try to choose an energy-efficient system where possible, and consider installing motion detectors to reduce the need for continuous monitoring.
Electric Kettles
Kettles make boiling water easy, but their high wattage can lead to high energy consumption. Make sure to only boil the kettle when you need it, and boil just the right amount of water rather than filling it to the top.
Bread Makers
Fresh, homemade bread is convenient with a breadmaker, but their long bake cycles mean that they can be energy intensive. Consumption depends on the model and frequency of use; regularly using it for several hours can significantly increase energy bills.