What Uses the Most Electricity in a Home?

Learn about the top electricity consumers in your home and discover smart strategies to reduce overall energy wattage and lower your monthly bills.

1. Air Conditioning & Heating

• Energy Consumption: HVAC systems account for about 52% of the energy used in an average U.S. home,according to the US Energy Information Administration. Depending on your system, monthly consumption can range between 850-1950 kWh.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Schedule regular maintenance for efficient operation. Set your thermostat slightly higher in summer and lower in winter. Use ceiling fans to circulate air and reduce HVAC reliance. Seal air leaks to maintain your desired indoor temperature. Invest in a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize usage.

2. Water Heating

• Energy Consumption: Water heaters use around 18% of your home's total energy, despite running for only about three hours per day.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Insulate your water heater to keep heat in.Take shorter showers or consider a tankless water heater.Wash clothes in cold water when possible.Set the water heater temperature to 120ºF or lower. Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators to reduce overall water usage.

3. Refrigerators

• Energy Consumption: Refrigerators typically account for about 14% of a household’s electricity use. Though essential, optimizing their efficiency can still save energy.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Ensure the refrigerator seal is airtight.Avoid overfilling to allow proper air circulation.Keep frequently used items at the front for easy access.Set temperatures according to manufacturer recommendations. Regularly clean coils for optimal performance.Consider upgrading to an energy-efficient model.

4. Washer and Dryer

• Energy Consumption: Clothes washers and dryers can significantly impact your bill, with dryers alone using roughly 6% of home electricity.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Wash full loads on the cold-water setting.Use high spin speeds to reduce drying time.Clean the dryer lint trap and vent regularly. Dry consecutive loads to capitalize on residual heat.Air dry clothes on racks when possible.

5. Oven and Stove

• Energy Consumption: Cooking with an electric oven and stove can quickly add up, especially when used daily. They also contribute extra heat, increasing cooling needs.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Use appropriately sized pots and lids to conserve heat.Avoid frequently opening the oven door during cooking.Utilize a microwave, slow cooker, or toaster oven when suitable.Turn off convection settings when unnecessary.Preheat only when needed.Choose non-stick pans that heat faster and cook more efficiently.

6. Dishwasher

• Energy Consumption: Daily dishwasher use can indirectly raise energy costs by adding extra heat to your home, prompting more AC use.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Run the dishwasher only with a full load.Skip the heat-dry cycle when possible.Rinse dishes before loading to reduce cleaning time.Use energy-efficient detergents.Regularly clean the filter to prevent overuse.

7. TV and Media

• Energy Consumption: Modern electronics, including smart TVs and media devices, typically account for around 3% of your total energy use.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Unplug devices or use smart power station to cut standby power.Adjust brightness and contrast settings to minimize power draw.Upgrade older models to newer, energy-efficient versions.Consider downsizing your screen size if feasible.

8. Lighting

• Energy Consumption: Lighting makes up about 9% of a household’s energy use. The type of bulbs and usage habits play a big role.

• Cost-Saving Tips: Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs.Maximize natural light during daytime hours.Install dimmer switches to adjust brightness when full power isn’t needed.Turn off lights in rooms that are not in use.