Home Appliances: The Biggest Energy Users

Appliances and electronics work hard making your life easier, but they also add to your energy bills. Which ones cost the most?

Your electronics and appliances work hard, keeping you entertained while making sure your food is fresh and your clothes are clean. You appreciate all that, but you probably don't appreciate the way they add to your monthly energy bills.

Which devices are the worst energy offenders?

Here we show the estimated annual energy use for some commonly used household appliances and electronics.

Oven

315 KWH (30 minutes a day, 180 days a year)

Refrigerator

300 KWH (24 hours a day, 365 days a year)

40" Plus HD TV

100 KWH (5 hours a day, 365 days a year)

Clothes Dryer

290 KWH (1 hour a day, twice a week)

These are just estimates of course; your energy use will depend on the size of your household and your habits. Spend all weekend binge-watching your favorite shows, for example, and you might see your energy bills start to rise.

Reducing your energy use

The following measures will help diminish the energy used by your devices:

1. Run a full load

Wash clothes and dishes only using full loads; partial loads waste energy and water.

2. Plug smarter

Plug TVs and electronic devices into an advanced power strip. These 'smart' strips sense when devices are not being used and shut off power.

3. Keep your dryer clean

Clean the lint filter after each dryer load; this will increase air circulation and improve dryer efficiency.

4. Air dry laundry

Why not air dry clean clothes? It will reduce energy costs and it may help to keep clothes looking new.

5. Cook efficiently

Use your microwave or toaster oven to heat leftovers or smaller portions. These smaller appliances often heat food more quickly while using less energy.

Purchasing new appliances or gadgets? Make sure they are ENERGY STAR^® certified. ENERGY STAR products use less energy than standard models while still providing the same level of performance.

Appalachian Power’s Efficient Products Program offers rebates on qualifying ENERGY STAR^® certified appliances. Purchase from a local retailer, or on our marketplace, and apply for a rebate online. Visit our homepage, or email us at TakeCharge@aep.com, to learn more.