Every household in the United States of America is dependent on minor or major electric appliances. Refrigerators, washing machines, microwave ovens, etc have become necessary in every home. Statistics say annual store sales of home appliances in the U.S. are around 20 billion.
Despite making daily life convenient, these appliances cost us a heavy electric bill. Let’s discuss the most common home appliances that cost us the most electricity. We developed this list using the most recent Residential Electricity Consumption Survey by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Air Conditioners
Air conditioners are essential indoor appliances, especially during hot summer months. Air conditioners account for approximately 19.4% of total home electricity use in the United States.
On average, households spend between $200 to $500 per year on air conditioning costs alone. To reduce electricity costs, try using ACs at regular intervals.
Electric Space Heaters
Electric space heaters provide supplemental warmth during colder months. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports that electric heaters can consume 12.3% of electricity.
Space heating costs in households are annually $258 on average. Solar heating options are cost-wise and more profitable. Else, try investing in energy-efficient heaters.
Water Heaters
Water heaters are necessary in colder regions for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. This essential appliance accounts for 12% of your total electricity use.
The annual cost of operating an electric water heater can range from $400 to $600. This cost might vary based on electricity rates in different areas. Homeowners can insulate hot water tanks to reduce bills.
Refrigerators
Refrigerators are among the most energy-intensive appliances in a typical household. They require constant electrical support, resulting in heavy electricity bills.
Refrigerators account for 7.9% of a house’s total energy consumption. The annual cost of operating a refrigerator can range from $100 to $200. It is better to invest in Energy Star-certified refrigerator models.
Indoor Lighting
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, indoor lighting consumes 6.2 % of total electricity usage in average American homes.
This is due to the long hours spent keeping the lights on. The cost of this huge consumption can be more than $500 annually. The Department of Energy suggests looking for energy-efficient indoor lighting methods.
Television Sets
Televisions are common household appliances that provide a daily dose of entertainment. While running for long hours, they can also contribute to high electric bills.
Plus, the bigger the TV screen is, the more power it consumes. This appliance can use 5.8% of your total electricity consumption. Going for an energy-efficient TV is better for lowering the electricity bill.
Clothes Dryers
Clothes dryers are convenient appliances for drying laundry quickly. The U.S. Department of Energy states clothes dryers use 782 KWH per annum.
This amounts to 4.3% of the total electric bill in an average U.S. household. Actual costs may differ based on individual circumstances and usage habits. You could think of alternative options like air-drying or sun-drying.
Air Handlers for Cooling
Air handlers are typically part of central air conditioning systems. Depending on the size of your home, your air handler can cost you a lump sum electricity bill. The climate condition also affects the cost. If your home has central air conditioning, air handlers will use up 2.9% of total electricity usage.
Air Handlers for Heating
Heat pump systems or an electric furnace also contain air handles. These handlers function to maintain the heat inside the house. They utilize 1.8% of total electrical unit usage.
The bill depends on various factors. Major factors are the house size and the energy efficiency of the system. On average, you will spend hundreds of dollars monthly on heating air handlers.
Cooking Stoves
Electric stoves use electricity as their primary energy source for cooking. The cost of operating an electric stove depends on various factors. The stove’s wattage, usage duration, and local electricity rates contribute to the electricity consumption. Most stoves use 1000-3000 watts of electricity, 1.8% of total consumption.
Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans are not necessary in every household anymore. Houses with ceiling fans will have higher electricity bills. The fan’s size, motor efficiency, and speed settings affect electricity consumption. Reports say ceiling fans consume 1.6% of the total power usage. There are many power-efficient models these days. So, replacing the older models with 90-120 watts is better.
Pool Pumps
Pool pumps are not common in every household. In villas or houses with bigger spaces, they can add more to electricity bills. Pool pumps consume varying amounts of electricity based on horsepower and usage. According to reports, they can consume 1.5% of total electricity usage. Energy-efficient pumps and proper maintenance can reduce these costs.
Microwave Ovens and Stoves
Microwave ovens offer quick and efficient cooking options. They typically consume less electricity compared to other kitchen appliances. Microwave ovens typically consume around 650 to 1,200 watts of power during use. Even while put on standby, they use up a small amount of electricity. In general, this appliance consumes around 1% of electricity.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers offer convenience and efficiency in cleaning dishes. Sadly, they can contribute to high electric bills, consuming 0.7% of total power usage.
Calculating the electricity cost of one load will not scare you. When you add up the total annual cost, you will find a vast number. Running full loads instead of multiple small ones can reduce the cost. Plus, you can air dry your utensils to save even more.
