Do you wonder why your utility bill is so high every month? You may be paying a lot for electricity overall, or you may be using too much electricity in your home. Knowing which appliances use the most energy is the first step toward reducing your bill. Dryers, water heaters, water pumps, and space heaters zap a ton of energy. The same goes for hair dryers, electric range burners, refrigerators, and computers — even light bulbs can eat up a lot of electricity. But, what uses the most?
4 Home Appliances that Use the Most Energy
1. Heating and Cooling
AC units are the most energy-consuming appliances in the home. This is especially troublesome when you live in an area that’s warm year-round because you can never really leave the AC off for an extended period of time. Luckily, you can reduce AC energy consumption by making sure to have it serviced regularly. Also, by cutting back on usage and using low-energy alternatives, you can reduce your utility bill. Additionally, by upgrading to an AC unit that has a high SEER rating, you can also cut back on energy consumption.
2. Water Heater
Your water heater has an important job — heating the water for your showers, dishes, and laundry. While having a water heater is important, it can be a real energy drainer. And, the more people living in your home, the more energy your water heater uses. There are two main types of water heaters: tank and tankless. Tankless can reduce your energy usage, but they’re also expensive to install — making them an undesirable option for some.
3. Washer and Dryer
Like the water heater, using the washer and dryer often for laundry and dishes uses a significant amount of hot water. Try to limit your use of these appliances by doing laundry once a week versus several small laundry loads. You can also opt to wash your clothes in cold water, to limit energy consumption from your water heater.
4. Lighting
How often do you remember to turn the lights off in unused rooms? Leaving the lights on is a bad habit that can not only waste energy but increase energy bills. Remember to shut off the lights when you aren’t using a room or when you leave your home. There are also some lightbulbs that are more energy-efficient than others. Look for energy-saving bulbs the next time you’re at the store.
4 Ways to Cut Energy Costs
Do you need more ways to reduce cooling costs during the summertime? There’s plenty you can do aside from the suggestions above.
1. Close the Shades
Keep your shades drawn. Sun shining through windows creates a greenhouse effect, which causes your AC to work harder — resulting in higher energy bills. By installing dark-out shades in rooms that you don’t use often, you can help keep out the sun.
2. Cook Outside More Often
Cooking outside can be a fun way to spend family time and save energy costs. Whenever possible, cook outside. Get usage from your grill and leave your oven off to save on cooling costs.
3. Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat
If you don’t already have a programmable thermostat, install one and use it to your advantage — particularly if you’re gone for most of the day. The temperature can be higher while you’re not at home and only cool down when you’re returning for the day.
4. Change Your Air filters
Air filters should be changed every two to three months. But, there are some factors that may cause you to change yours sooner, including:
- Smoking
- Pets
- Amount of people in the home
- How often the home is cleaned
Make sure to keep an eye on the status of your air filter and change it as often as necessary. It can also help to schedule regular maintenance checkups.
Call Colman Heating & Air for AC Repairs
Are you wondering if it’s finally time to replace your AC? If it requires frequent repairs, regularly short cycles or you’re noticing that your energy bills are higher than normal, it could be time to get a new unit. For more help lowering your energy bill, including AC maintenance and repair, contact Colman Heating & Air.
24-HR Emergency Service: (321) 269-4565
