The appliances we use every day are responsible for a large part of our energy consumption.
A better understanding of which ones are the most "energy-hungry" will allow us to take measures to reduce consumption and save on electricity bills.
Changes in Energy Efficiency Labeling (EEL)
Since March 2021, a change in the EEL has altered the way we assess the efficiency of our appliances. The A+++, A++, and A+ categorization has been phased out, opting for a more rigorous scale ranging from "A" to "G". This change, far from representing a deterioration in appliances, reflects a stricter classification system that leaves room for future improvements.
Major energy consumers in the home
Let's examine the appliances that consume the most energy in our homes:
1. Refrigerator: a constant consumer
The refrigerator, always connected, is one of the appliances that consumes the most energy in a home. According to data from the Spanish Electricity Network, the refrigerator can represent up to 14% of a home's energy consumption.
2. Television: the energetic pastime
The television, although it may not seem like it, can represent up to 10% of a home's energy consumption. The best way to reduce this expense is as simple as completely turning off the device when not in use, rather than keeping it on standby.
3. Washing machine: the weight of hot water
80% of the washing machine's energy consumption comes from heating the water, so washing at lower temperatures is an effective solution to reduce this expense.
4. Dryer: high consumption at dry
The dryer is another major energy consumer. A useful trick to minimize its consumption is to spin the clothes before introducing them into the dryer.
5. Oven: cooking and consumption
The oven, omnipresent in our kitchens, is one of the most voracious appliances in terms of energy consumption. To economize, it is recommended to completely turn off the oven before the end of cooking and take advantage of the accumulated heat.
6. Dishwasher: consumption under control
With the increasing presence of dishwashers in our kitchens, it is crucial to control their consumption. Much of its energy consumption occurs during water heating, so using ECO programs, keeping filters clean, and proper maintenance are effective measures to save energy.
7. Small appliances: big collective impact
The microwave, coffee maker, vacuum cleaner, and iron, despite their low power, generate heat and therefore consume energy. These small appliances can represent up to 27% of the total energy consumption of a home.
Being informed about the energy consumption of our appliances is the first step to optimizing our use of energy. Through small daily actions and proper maintenance, we can minimize our consumption and ultimately care for our planet while saving on our bills.