14 Appliances That Are Draining Your Wallet

Have you ever received your electric bill and wondered where you're going wrong? The truth is, you're likely unknowingly driving up your electric bill. Whether accidentally or because they plan to use it again later, leaving appliances plugged in is a common thing most people do. However, your appliances suck up electricity at an unbelievable rate. The following are fifteen appliances you should unplug to save money on your electric bill. 

1. Television

The television is many people's go-to for entertainment. But did you know that leaving your TV plugged in all day can significantly affect your electric bill? Even when your TV is turned off, it can still use electricity. If you don't want to constantly plug and unplug your television, invest in a smart power switch that cuts off the power supply when it isn't in use. 

2. Microwave

The microwave is a kitchen essential for many people, but it requires a lot of energy to heat up an entire meal or defrost frozen foods. It also uses power when it isn't in use. If you keep your microwave plugged in, it's using idle energy that quickly adds up over time. 

3. Electric Stove

Electric stoves are a significant energy consumer in the household. They require a lot of electricity to heat up and maintain their temperature. When cooking with an electric stove or oven, try to prepare as many things as possible simultaneously. Once you're done, unplug the stove until you're ready to use it again.

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4. Electric Water Heater

Hot showers are incredible, but electric water heaters are notorious for their high energy consumption. They constantly keep water at a set temperature, even when not in use. One way to reduce the energy used is to consider decreasing the heater's temperature. Also, if you'd like to reduce energy consumption, do laundry with cold water and take shorter showers. 

5. Fans

Most people assume fans are an energy-efficient way to stay cool, but not using them wisely can increase the electric bill. Always turn your fans off when you're no longer in the room and unplug them when they aren't in use. You could also set your fan on a timer so it doesn't stay on all night. For ceiling fans, run them counterclockwise during the summer to push cool air down and clockwise in the winter to circulate warm air.

6. Video Game System

Video game systems are a common, silent energy consumer, especially when left on standby mode.  Many game consoles are designed with an instant-on feature that allows the game to start without additional wait time. While this is convenient when playing a game, it uses a lot of energy and can increase your electric bill. Always turn off and unplug your game consoles when they aren't in use.

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7. Dishwasher

Dishwashers are incredibly convenient appliances that save time and water compared to washing by hand. However, they are still very energy-intensive appliances. To cut back on the energy your dishwasher uses, only run it when it's completely filled, skip the drying cycle, and opt for hand drying instead. Also, be sure to unplug your dishwasher when not using it.

8. Space Heater 

Space heaters are a lifesaver during the colder months. However, they can quickly raise your electric bill. They use a lot of power to heat small spaces, so they should be used sparingly and only in the room that you will currently be using.

9. Secondary Refrigerator 

Many people keep a secondary refrigerator in the garage or basement to store perishables they aren't using. While this might be a convenient appliance, it can also significantly increase your household energy use. If you must keep your secondary fridge, use a more energy-efficient model and ensure that it's always well stocked since empty fridges use a lot more energy than when fully stocked. 

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10. Toaster

How often do you use your toaster? Though they are very small appliances, toasters use a lot more energy than you realize. Their high power usage during the short period of time that they're being used really adds up, so be sure to only use them when absolutely necessary and unplug them when not in use.

11. Central Air Conditioning 

Central air conditioning is essential and convenient for everyone. However, it's a major energy consumer. If you don't have a programmable thermostat that automatically regulates temperatures throughout the day, be sure to keep your thermostat at a reasonable temperature. Cooling an empty house can significantly increase your energy bill. Also, ensure that your air conditioning is regularly maintained by cleaning the filters, ducks, etc. to improve efficiency and minimize energy consumption.

12. Desktop Computer

Most people who have desktop computers at home keep them plugged in all the time, even when they're not in use. Most people don't realize that these systems are extremely power-hungry and will use electricity throughout the day. Always ensure that when your computer is not in use, it is shut down and unplugged. You can also change your computer settings so that it goes into sleep mode during periods of inactivity to save more energy.

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13. Clothes Dryer 

Everyone loves the convenience of a clothes dryer. However, it's not always necessary. Dryers are notorious for their high energy consumption. So, when possible, air dry clothes on a line or drying rack. Additionally, always ensure that your dryer is regularly maintained by cleaning out the filters to ensure a shorter drying time and a more efficient cycle.

14. Coffee Maker

The coffee maker is probably one of the most frequently used appliances. Although you may love your coffee, coffee makers can be substantial energy users, especially if there's a hot plate to keep your coffee warm. Instead of leaving your coffee pot on the coffee maker to keep warm, consider pouring your coffee into a thermal mug or carafe.