Is There a Way to Reduce Consumption?
Yes, it is possible to reduce consumption by choosing the right appliances and using them correctly. Discover which appliances consume the most energy and how you can determine how much each device uses.
In the Netherlands, the energy consumption of household appliances accounts for 55% of the total electrical energy used in a household. This makes these appliances a key focus for any consumer looking to lower their electricity bill. The good news is that there are effective ways to reduce this consumption without compromising our quality of life.
The appliances that consume the most energy are also the ones that are often essential in daily life. According to a recent OCU analysis, the dryer tops this list, consuming over 32,000 Wh per month in the least efficient models. It is followed by the dishwasher, refrigerator, washing machine, and television, whose frequent use can significantly impact the monthly electricity bill.
| Appliance | Usage Frequency | Cost per Use (CAD) | Monthly Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dryer (cotton, 4 times per week) | 0.63 | 14.73 | – |
| Dishwasher (once per day) | 0.24 | 10.48 | – |
| Refrigerator (24h x 30 days) | 0.21 (per day) | 9.35 | – |
| Washing Machine (cotton, 4 times per week) | 0.33 | 7.64 | – |
| Television (4 hours per day) | 0.11 | 4.76 | – |
| Oven (2 times per week) | 0.32 | 3.69 | – |
(Conversion rate: 1 EUR = 1.55 CAD, estimated)
Saving Starts with Choosing Efficient Appliances
Choosing appliances with a high energy label not only means lower consumption but also the possibility of using ECO programs that optimize energy use. In the case of refrigerators, for example, the difference between an efficient and an inefficient model can result in up to 50% more energy expenses.
Which Appliances Consume the Least Energy?
On the other hand, some appliances have relatively low energy consumption. Vacuum cleaners and computer monitors stand out for their minimal impact on electricity use, with annual costs reaching around 14 CAD. These devices, along with irons, make up only a small portion of a household’s total electricity expenses.
- Vacuum cleaner: 38 kWh per year, assuming 1 hour of use per week; approximately 18.60 CAD per year.
- Computer monitor: 48 kWh per year, assuming 9 hours of use per day; around 21.50 CAD per year.
- Iron: 108 kWh per year, assuming 1 hour of use per week; about 52.00 CAD per year.
How to Find Out How Much an Appliance Consumes?
There are several ways to determine this:
-
Check the Energy Label
If you just bought the appliance or it is still available for sale, the easiest way to find out its consumption is by looking at the energy label. This label provides information on annual consumption (for refrigerators), consumption per cycle (for washing machines and dishwashers), etc. However, keep in mind that these numbers are calculated under specific conditions that may not reflect your actual usage habits. -
Check the Technical Sheet or Nameplate
To find out the consumption of an appliance you already own, check the power rating (Wattage) on the nameplate, usually found on the back or inside the appliance. Multiply this wattage (W) by the hours (h) used daily to estimate the consumption in Wh or kWh. This is an approximation, as not all appliances run at full power continuously. -
Use an Energy Monitoring Device
There are many devices available that allow you to instantly measure the energy consumption of an appliance. These devices help track:
- Total household energy use over time.
- Specific appliance energy use at different times of the day.
Don’t Overlook Standby Consumption
A critical but often ignored aspect is standby consumption. Some appliances, such as heating systems and smart speakers, consume electricity even when not actively in use, leading to an extra 37.20 CAD per year in energy costs.
To prevent this wasted energy, consider:
- Unplugging appliances when not in use.
- Using smart power strips that automatically cut power when the devices are off.
By following these tips, you can significantly reduce your electricity consumption while maintaining a comfortable and efficient home.
