Interested in learning more about what we do? Let's Talk!
July 29, 2025
Do you know what items take up the most real estate on your electric bill? Sometimes, unsuspecting products can turn out to be the largest energy users in your home.
While many of these items are essential for your home, it’s helpful to understand where your electricity is being used so you can prioritize making upgrades in the future that make the most impact on your electric bill.
Although heating and cooling systems use the most energy in a home, there are other products that can rack up in electricity costs. Here are some of the appliances that use the most electricity in your home and tips on how to run them more efficiently.
Dehumidifiers are frequently used during the stuffier times of the year. They use a lot of energy to pull humidity out of the air while preventing mold and increasing comfort. Operating them, however, can cost nearly $200 in electricity annually!
To keep your dehumidifier running more efficiently, only place it in areas of your home where the manufacturer recommends, with all doors and windows shut. This allows for the air to circulate much easier.
Standalone freezers usually run year-round. Typically, the bigger, older, and taller (upright) your freezer, the more energy it uses. They can cost around $170 annually to run.
Frost build-up can sometimes be the culprit to excess energy usage, making defrosting a good strategy to maintain an efficient freezer and chill your electric bill. You should also check the seals around the door to make sure they are airtight.
Like freezers, fridges also run 24/7 and use more energy depending on their age and size. Some older models can use more than $200 in electricity annually.
Cleaning your refrigerator, especially the condenser coils underneath it, can help keep your fridge at a consistent temperature without using unnecessary electricity.
This seasonal appliance can really heat up your electric bill. For an average 1,500-watt unit, it can cost up to $48 a month to run it eight hours a day.
If you must use a space heater, use it only to heat small rooms, and make sure they are designed to heat the size of the room it’s used in. Be mindful of how many hours you are using them, and look for one with thermostat and timer settings to save energy and prevent overheating.
On average, electric water heaters can cost about $570 to run annually. According to the Department of Energy, water heating accounts for around 18% of your electricity usage. Some of the factors that impact their consumption include the temperature its set to, size, age, and amount of hot water that you use.
Turning down the thermostat on your water heater can turn up your savings. Also, consider washing clothes in cold water and using low-flow faucet aerators in your home.
A common theme you may have noticed is that the age and size of these products can impact their energy use. When it’s time to replace your unit, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Our Home Energy Rebates program provides cash back on qualifying products.
Want to know more about what makes up your energy use and how you can save energy and money in your home? Try our Electric Bill Advice program.
Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. To learn more about how we use cookies, please review our Privacy Policy.