What Appliances Use the Most Electricity in Your Home?

Understanding Home Energy Usage

Before diving into specific appliances, it’s helpful to understand how electricity is typically used in a modern home. Residential electricity usage can vary greatly based on the size of the house, the number of occupants, the type and age of appliances, and personal habits. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average U.S. household uses about 877 kWh of electricity per month. However, Louisiana ranks among the states with the highest residential electricity consumption due to the state’s hot, humid climate and the reliance on air conditioning.



But which devices are responsible for most of that usage? Let’s break down the key offenders.

HVAC Systems: The Silent Giant

If you guessed that heating and cooling systems top the list of electricity consuming appliances, you’re absolutely right. Central air conditioning systems, electric furnaces, and heat pumps require large amounts of electricity to regulate the temperature in your home, especially in Baton Rouge where summer heatwaves are no joke.

During peak months, your HVAC system can account for over 40% of your monthly energy use. These systems run for long periods, often cycling on and off throughout the day to maintain your desired temperature. If your unit is older or not regularly maintained, it has to work harder to cool or heat your home, leading to higher consumption.

One way to improve efficiency is by scheduling regular maintenance, installing a smart thermostat, and sealing leaks in your ductwork. If you're unsure about the condition of your HVAC system, A.R.E. Louisiana offers professional residential electrical services that can help you assess and improve your system’s efficiency.

Water Heaters: Hot Water, High Bills

Another major player in your home’s electricity use is the water heater. Whether you’re taking a hot shower, running the dishwasher, or doing laundry, your water heater is hard at work behind the scenes. Traditional electric water heaters heat a tank of water and maintain it at a set temperature all day, even when you’re not using it. This standby heating leads to consistent energy draw.



Upgrading to a tankless water heater or lowering the thermostat on your unit by just 10 degrees can result in noticeable savings. Regularly flushing your water heater to remove sediment also improves efficiency.

Kitchen Appliances: Cooking Up Kilowatts

The kitchen is another hotspot when it comes to electricity consumption. Your refrigerator, in particular, is one of the few appliances that runs 24/7. Modern refrigerators are far more efficient than older models, but they still use a significant amount of power over time. Poor door seals, overloading, or setting the temperature too low can further increase energy use.

Then there’s the electric oven and stove. Cooking at high temperatures or using the oven for extended periods uses a considerable amount of electricity. Many people are switching to more energy-efficient cooking tools like induction cooktops, air fryers, or microwaves for everyday meals.

Dishwashers, especially those used frequently, also contribute to high energy bills. Newer models often come with eco-friendly or energy-saving settings that reduce water temperature and drying time, lowering electricity usage.

Laundry Room: Clean Clothes, Costly Energy

Washing machines and dryers are often overlooked when thinking about which home appliances consume more electricity. While washing machines are relatively efficient, especially when using cold water settings, the real energy culprit is the dryer. Electric dryers use heating elements that require a large amount of electricity to dry your clothes quickly.



Reducing dryer usage by air drying clothes, cleaning the lint trap regularly, and using moisture-sensing settings can all help lower your electric bill. If your washer and dryer are outdated, consider upgrading to more efficient models recommended by the experts at A.R.E. Louisiana. As a trusted electric company Baton Rouge residents rely on, they can guide you in choosing appliances that improve performance and reduce energy consumption.

Entertainment Systems: Hidden Energy Drains

Your home entertainment system may not seem like a big deal, but televisions, game consoles, sound systems, and streaming devices can consume more electricity than you might expect—especially if they’re left in standby mode. Many electronics continue to draw power even when they’re turned off, a phenomenon known as “phantom load” or “vampire power.”



To minimize this, consider using smart power strips that cut off electricity to devices when they’re not in use. You can also unplug electronics when they’re not needed or set them to eco mode.

Lighting: Small Changes, Big Impact

Lighting may seem like a minor contributor to your overall energy usage, but it adds up—especially in homes that still use incandescent or halogen bulbs. LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy and last much longer. Making the switch to LED lighting throughout your home is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to cut down on your energy usage.



Natural lighting can also be a huge help. Open your blinds and let the sun do the work during the day!

Appliances on Standby: The Invisible Consumers

Many people are unaware that appliances and electronics continue to use electricity even when they’re turned off but still plugged in. Items like microwaves, coffee makers, printers, computers, and chargers can quietly increase your electric bill every month. While the amount of electricity used by each item might seem small, the cumulative effect can be significant.



Using smart plugs, setting devices to energy-saving modes, or simply unplugging them when not in use are all ways to cut down on standby power usage.

Smart Habits, Smarter Bills

So now that you know what appliance uses the most electricity in your home, what can you do about it? The answer lies in a combination of appliance upgrades, routine maintenance, energy-efficient habits, and professional electrical services. At A.R.E. Louisiana, we help families and businesses throughout Baton Rouge implement practical solutions that save both energy and money.

If you're a homeowner, our residential electrical services include inspections, rewiring, panel upgrades, and smart home installations to improve efficiency. For businesses looking to cut down on operational costs, our commercial electrical services are tailored to fit your industry’s needs, whether it’s retail, hospitality, or manufacturing.

Concerned about power outages and emergency preparedness? We also offer generator installation to ensure your home or business stays powered when the grid goes down. Investing in a backup generator can be a game-changer, especially during hurricane season in Louisiana.

And if you're wondering whether we serve your neighborhood, check out our service areas page for more information.

Still have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. Our licensed electricians are ready to help you assess your home's electrical systems and recommend improvements tailored to your budget and lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

In the end, understanding what makes the electric bill high starts with identifying the major electricity consuming appliances in your home. From HVAC systems and water heaters to dryers and dishwashers, these everyday devices can quietly drive up your power usage without you even realizing it.

But knowledge is power. By making smarter energy choices, performing regular maintenance, and working with a trusted electric company in Baton Rouge, you can take control of your electricity usage and create a more sustainable, cost-effective household.

A.R.E. Louisiana is here to support you on that journey. Whether you’re interested in an energy audit, appliance upgrades, or a full electrical system overhaul, our team is committed to delivering expert service and long-term value. Let us help you lower your bills and power your home more efficiently, starting today.