What Uses The Most Electricity In The Home?

With the economy in a volatile state and the looming threat of a global recession, people are looking for areas to cut costs. One area that doesn't require a drastic lifestyle change is your electricity use at home. If you're blessed enough to afford them, it's easy to get used to the creature comforts of home without giving much thought to the expenses they entail. Fortunately, there are simple ways to shave electricity costs without sacrificing much of the comfort you enjoy.   

This article lists the top power consumers at home and provides tips on using them more efficiently.    

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC)  

On average, HVAC systems are responsible for around half of the total electricity consumed in a household. This undoubtedly puts heating and cooling systems at the top spot. Unfortunately, the prevalence of extreme weather conditions has made HVAC use more of a necessity than a luxury for most homes.     

Power saving tips:  

• Have your air conditioner and furnace serviced once a year. This ensures it stays in tip-top condition, making it more energy-efficient.   
• In the summer, use air conditioners only at the hottest times of the day. See if you can make do with fans when the sun goes down.   

• In the winter, open the curtains to let the sun's warmth into your home. At night, bundle up!  
• The US Department of Energy suggests setting your system to 70 degrees for heating and 78 degrees for air conditioning.   
• If you use ceiling fans, have them spin counterclockwise when it's warm and clockwise when it's colder.   

As you can see, the above are minute adjustments that can add to significant savings in a year. If you're looking for a better deal, use a service like Movinghub to compare the costs of electrical utilities service providers.   

Water heating  

Apart from taps, baths, and showers, water heating is used for dishwashing and laundry. This is why some estimates peg water heaters as responsible for 20% of a home's power consumption.   

Power saving tips:  

• The Department of Energy recommends setting your water heaters to 120 degrees. Most default settings are at 140 degrees.   
• Use low-flow faucets and shower heads. These reduce the water heater workload.   
• Turn down your water heating if you'll be away from home for an extended period.   

• Insulate hot water pipes and older water heaters. You can use insulated pipe sleeves and blankets.   

Being more conscientious about your water use, in general, will have a trickle-down effect on your water heater's power consumption.    

Refrigerators  

When it comes to appliances, refrigerators consume the most power. And while you can't really switch them off, there are ways you can optimize their energy consumption.   

Power saving tips:  

• Refrain from overloading your refrigerator, as doing so overworks the system. Organize its contents, keeping the most used items accessible.   
• Make sure there's space behind the fridge for air circulation. Keep the coils clean and the seals airtight too.   

Refrigerators are some of the most durable appliances, with most units lasting well over a decade. As such, it's best to replace older units with modern refrigerators that are more energy-efficient. You'll be surprised at how quick the return on investment can be.    

Washer and dryer  

Similarly, there's no way around using washers and dryers, as everyone needs clean clothes and sheets. However, much like the rest of the list, there are energy-saving practices you can adopt.   

Power saving tips:  

• Wash with full loads; this maximizes power usage. However, be mindful not to overfill the machine, as this will overwork it and require more power.   
• Use cold water; this saves energy from your water heater.   
• Use clotheslines and drying racks whenever possible, especially during hotter days.   
• Regularly clean the dryer's lint traps and vents.  

Additionally, use cold water and try to use these appliances when you're using less electricity around the house.    

Dishwasher  

Similar to your refrigerator, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient one if you have an older model.  

Power saving tips:  

• Pre-rinse heavily soiled dishes; this reduces the workload of the dishwasher and minimizes the need for another cycle.   

• Wash only with full loads.   
• Because this appliance is tied to your heating system, it's best to use it during cooler hours of the day.   

Interesting studies are exploring the health benefits of using dishwashers and their effects on water savings, suggesting handwashing dishes may not be worth the shaved costs. This amplifies the need to invest in a modern, energy-efficient unit.    

Electric stove and oven  

Using your oven heats your home, increasing your air conditioning's workload. As such, whenever possible, use it during cooler hours of the day.   

Power saving tips:  

• Switch the burners off shortly before the dish is done. The residual heat should be enough to finish the job.   
• For smaller batches, use smaller appliances.   
• Preheat the oven only when necessary.   

Consider having a gas stove as an alternative cooking option.    

Lights  

Technology has made tremendous gains in providing the public with energy-efficient products. If you're still not using LED lighting for your entire home, it's best to invest in them now.   

Power saving tips:  

• Let the sunlight in to allow natural lighting whenever possible. This is extra beneficial during the winter, as it lets the sun's warmth in.    
• Use motion sensor lights for applicable areas, such as less frequented rooms and spaces, so they only turn on when needed.   

• They require more upfront expense, but if you can slowly switch to smart bulbs, you can schedule energy-efficient settings right from your phone. You can also ask your voice assistant to switch off lights, leaving you with no excuses to leave them on.   

While it may not consume as much electricity as the others on this list, when trying to cut costs, every little bit helps.  

Final words  

As for other electronics and devices at home, make it a habit to unplug what you're not using, especially if you're leaving the house. In fact, making a conscious effort to battle laziness consistently can lead to significant energy savings. Finally, Energy Star-certified and inverter appliances offer excellent returns in energy savings. So, consider slowly upgrading to these whenever you have extra saved up.