There’s no denying that household appliances make our lives easier and more comfortable, but some of our most beloved gadgets can also cause a spike in energy bills. If you’re aiming to improve your energy efficiency, we’ve compiled a list of 14 appliances that are guaranteed to increase your energy usage.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers are convenient but can add to your energy costs. As Compare the Market recommends, to reduce this, use the eco or energy-saving cycle and skip the heated dry option, letting dishes air-dry instead. If you’re in the market for a new dishwasher, choose an Energy Star-rated model for greater efficiency.
Electric Kettles
Here in the UK, we sure do drink a lot of tea, but we don’t often consider how much energy this is wasting. 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.
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.
Clothes Dryers
According to EnergySage, homes that run a dryer three times per week will spend an average of over £50 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.
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.
Lighting Systems
Few people realize quite how much energy their home lighting systems use, focusing too heavily on elaborate setups without thinking about the cost. Switching to LED bulbs can save you money, as they use 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting. Better still, set up automation systems, and you’ll never waste lighting energy unnecessarily.
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.
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.