What Uses the Most Electricity in Homes?

Keeping track of your energy consumption can be a bit like detective work – pinpointing which household items are the biggest users can be enlightening. If you’re looking to reduce your energy use and potentially save some money, it’s important to know what typically uses the most electricity in your home.

Here’s a breakdown of the main energy users and some tips on how to manage their consumption.

Heating and Cooling Systems

Your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system is often the largest energy consumer in your home especially in both extreme cold and extreme heat. For example, the energy required to heat a room from 48° to 68° is much less than what’s needed to raise the temperature from 18° to 68°.

Think of it like the difference between traveling 10 yards versus 10 miles. The longer the distance, the more energy is needed. Similarly, maintaining a comfortable temperature during extremely cold or hot weather requires significantly more energy than on a milder day.

This effect can be amplified if there are air leaks in the home that allow the air to escape. Using the same analogy, imagine facing a strong headwind while traveling those 10 miles. The added resistance makes the journey more challenging and energy-draining. In the same way, air leaks or poorly insulated rooms force your HVAC system to work harder, driving up energy usage.

To manage these costs:

• Ensure your system is well-maintained. Change filters regularly and have your system serviced annually to keep it running efficiently.
• Consider using a programmable thermostat. These devices allow you to set temperatures that match your schedule, reducing energy use when you're not home.
• Proper insulation can reduce the demand on your HVAC system by keeping your home temperature more consistent.

Major Appliances

Large appliances can also have a substantial impact on your energy usage:

• Refrigerators: Modern, energy-efficient models use less electricity. Ensure your fridge is set to the optimal temperature (around 37°F) and keep it well-organized to maintain efficiency.
• Ovens and Stoves: Cooking appliances can use a lot of power. Using a microwave or toaster oven for small meals can be more energy-efficient than using a conventional oven.
• Washing Machines and Dryers: These appliances, especially older models, can be significant energy consumers. Wash clothes in cold water and consider air-drying clothes.

Lighting

While not as significant as heating and cooling or major appliances, lighting still contributes to your energy bill. To reduce lighting costs:

• Switch to LEDs: LED bulbs are much more energy-efficient than incandescent or compact fluorescent bulbs and have a longer lifespan.
• Use Timers and Motion Sensors: Implementing timers or motion sensors can ensure lights are only on when needed.

Electronics and Small Appliances

Although they might seem minor, electronics and small appliances can add up over time:

• Standby Power: Many devices draw power even when not in use, known as “phantom” or “vampire” energy. Use power strips to easily turn off multiple devices at once.
• Smart Plugs: Consider using smart plugs to monitor and control the power usage of electronics.

Tips for Reducing Electricity Use

• Conduct a DIY Energy Assessment: The TVA Energy Right Program offers a free self-guided energy assessment that lets you explore the ins and outs of your home’s energy use at your own pace, at the time that’s best for you. This assessment will help you understand your home’s energy use and identify areas for improvement.
• Educate Your Family: Ensure everyone in the household understands the importance of energy conservation and how they can contribute.
• Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Models: When replacing appliances or systems, look for ENERGY STAR® certified products that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines.