Top Energy Use in North American Homes and How to Cut Costs

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About two thirds of greenhouse gas emissions come from energy use. The current climate and the ongoing energy challenges in North America demand careful energy budgeting from households. Consumers often misjudge which devices drain power the most. All appliances use energy, but some stand out as big contributors.

In the United States and Canada, the average home consumes a substantial amount of electricity each year, and the pattern of usage shapes both bills and emissions.

Here are the appliances that typically use the most energy at home:

1.- Refrigerator

The refrigerator is usually the single biggest energy user, accounting for roughly 19% of a typical home’s electricity. Its power draw is modest, around 200 watts, but it runs nonstop, 24 hours a day, which makes its annual consumption very high.

To keep energy use in check, ensure it operates efficiently. Place it away from heat sources, provide good air circulation at the back, and choose models with adjustable temperature settings and low power modes.

Refrigerator, the device that consumes the most energy

Proper placement matters. Keep the back clear, shield it from direct sunlight, and manage temperature so cold food goes in promptly. Regularly vacuum dust from the back coils to help efficiency.

2.- Washing machine

The washing machine can be a major energy draw, often contributing around 12% of a home’s electricity usage. This can be reduced with efficient habits: cold washes, full loads, and programs that match the laundry needs.

Washing machine

Roughly 80% to 85% of washing energy goes to heating water. Lowering the wash temperature reduces costs while maintaining cleaning performance. Use energy efficient cycles and full loads whenever possible.

3.- Television

TV usage is a notable part of energy use, with estimates placing it around 7.5% of home electricity, while other sources cite higher figures. In absolute terms, a television may consume about 100 kWh, yet long weekly viewing can yield energy costs comparable to other mid range appliances.

Screen size matters. Larger screens require more energy, and LED displays tend to be more efficient than LCD. Keep TVs out of standby; fully powering off saves energy, and consider power strips that cut power to inactive devices.

Television spends due to its high usage

4.- Tumble dryer

The dryer is a strong energy consumer but remains popular for convenience. It is wise to use it sparingly, especially when weather allows air drying. Outdoor drying or a clothesline can be much gentler on energy bills.

Dryer

Before using the dryer, spin the laundry to remove excess moisture. Dry heavier clothing separately from lighter items to optimize energy use.

5.- Oven

The electric oven accounts for roughly 9% of household electricity. It may not be the top culprit in every home, but it still adds up, especially when used frequently.

Avoid constantly opening the oven

A simple tactic is to switch off before cooking finishes and rely on residual heat to finish the job. Opening the door frequently wastes energy. Try to plan meals so the oven runs efficiently, and avoid unnecessary heat loss.

6.- Vitroceramic and induction

Electric stoves vary in efficiency. Induction plates typically use 20% to 30% less electricity than traditional ceramic hobs. The latter tends to be the second biggest energy user after refrigerators and washing machines.

For maximum efficiency, ensure pots are sized to cover the cooking area and use lids whenever possible. Induction hobs heat quickly and shut off fast when the pot is removed.

Ceramic hobs consume more than induction hobs

Lids help save energy by reducing heat loss. Induction surfaces can be turned off a few minutes early and finish cooking with residual heat.

7.- Dishwasher

Using a dishwasher is often cheaper than hand washing, as it uses minimal water and energy per cycle when full. Keeping a machine well loaded maximizes savings.

Dishwasher

About 90% of a dishwasher’s energy use comes from heating water. Modern models can adjust water temperature and reuse heat for rinsing, further cutting energy use without compromising cleaning.

8.- Computer

Computers contribute a meaningful share of household electricity, with laptops generally consuming less than desktops. The screen is typically the main energy draw, especially when a high brightness LCD is used.

desktop computer

Avoid leaving devices in standby since even small currents add up over time. A proper shutdown of idle equipment saves energy. If a screen saver is used, the darkest one uses the least power.

9.- Microwave

A microwave is efficient for quick heating and can save energy compared with traditional ovens. Compared to standard ovens, microwaves can use significantly less energy for many tasks.

Microwave

When possible, choose a microwave or invest in efficient cooking methods to minimize energy use in daily cooking routines.

10.- Small household appliances

This group covers a range of devices with varying energy footprints. Heaters and hair dryers tend to be high energy users, while smaller gadgets can be surprisingly efficient.

Heaters, irons, and hair dryers consume more power while kitchen devices such as mixers and food processors can also draw substantial energy in short bursts. Smart usage patterns help cut overall consumption.

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