When it comes to energy efficiency around the home, many of us are unaware of how much electricity our appliances consume. We take it for granted that the water heater and air conditioner use up more energy than, say, the toaster.
It's important to remember that you must also make electricity comparisons from time to time to ensure that you're not paying extra for power for all your gadgets.
In this blog post, we'll explore various electrical appliances you might not have realised can increase your home's energy bills. From refrigerators to hair dryers, we'll cover the energy usage of each appliance and suggest some energy-saving measures you can take to reduce your electricity bills. Take a look.
Old Air Conditioner
Dated air conditioners are the biggest energy hog in most homes. If your air conditioner is more than ten years old, it's likely to be less energy efficient than a newer model.
Air conditioners use a lot of energy to cool down your home. An inefficient model can use up to three times as much energy as a modern unit. Replacing your air conditioner with an energy-efficient model can save you hundreds of dollars in energy bills annually.
Poorly-Maintained Refrigerator
A poorly-maintained refrigerator can be one of the biggest energy drains in your home. Fridges should be kept clean and free of dust and debris to ensure they run efficiently. The condenser coils should be regularly checked and cleaned, and the temperature should be between 34 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit.
Consider replacing the appliance if it is more than ten years old, as older fridges can be up to 40% less efficient than newer models.
Defective Washing Machine
Even if your appliance is new and energy-efficient, it could be drawing more energy than necessary if the machine is not running properly. A defective washing machine will often strain the electricity grid, resulting in higher-than-normal energy bills.
Look for signs such as your washing machine spins poorly, takes longer to finish a cycle than usual, or makes loud and unusual noises. Whatever the problem, getting the machine checked and repaired as soon as possible is best.
Low Rated Room Heater
A room heater works by heating a small area. It is often used in bedrooms or living rooms to provide a comfortable and cosy atmosphere. Unfortunately, low-rated heaters are inefficient and can consume a lot of energy, leading to high electricity bills.
To avoid this, it is best to invest in a 5-star-rated heater which is a much better option in terms of power consumption. Also, don't forget to make an electricity rate comparison if you think your heater is fine and your energy provider might be at fault.
Final Word
Many of the electrical appliances in our homes are hidden energy drains. To save money on your energy bills, assess your home's electricity usage and identify which appliances are the biggest culprits.
Then, invest in energy-efficient models if possible. Also, practice good habits such as unplugging electronics when not in use and using power strips to easily turn off multiple appliances at once.
Good luck!
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