Neither oven nor refrigerator: this is the second most electricity-consuming appliance in the home after heating
After heating, there is one other huge consumer of electricity in your home.
Although electric heating is recognized as the primary source of energy consumption in homes, another appliance often goes unnoticed yet significantly contributes to the monthly electricity bill: the water heater.
According to the French Agency for Ecological Transition (Ademe) and the European Energy Commission, water heaters can account for 15% to 25% of a household’s total electricity consumption. In many cases, their usage can be more costly than appliances like ovens, washing machines, or refrigerators.
With electricity prices rising, understanding the water heater’s impact and learning how to optimize its consumption can help reduce household energy expenses.
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How much electricity does a water heater consume?
The exact consumption of a water heater depends on several factors, including its capacity, energy efficiency, and the number of household members.
On average, a 200-liter water heater consumes approximately 3,200 kWh annually—a significant share of the electricity bill. For comparison, a fridge-freezer typically uses 350 to 500 kWh per year, an oven around 200 kWh, and both washing machines and dishwashers usually stay below 300 kWh.
Several factors can drive up a water heater’s energy consumption. One major factor is the set temperature. Setting the temperature too high not only increases energy use but also raises the risk of burns and accelerates limescale buildup in the system.
Over time, limescale reduces the appliance’s efficiency, requiring more energy to heat the same amount of water. Additionally, the number of people in the home and their hot water usage habits can significantly influence overall consumption.
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How to reduce water heater consumption
To optimize water heater usage and lower electricity consumption, experts recommend the following steps:
- Set the temperature appropriately: Keep the temperature between 50°C and 55°C to balance efficiency and comfort.
- Use a timer or programmer: Limit the water heater’s operation to necessary hours rather than running it 24/7.
- Upgrade to efficient models: Modern, energy-efficient water heaters can lead to significant long-term savings.
- Change consumption habits: Take shorter showers and use water diffusers on taps to reduce hot water usage.
As one of the highest electricity-consuming household appliances—second only to heating—the water heater plays a critical role in energy expenditure. Its continuous operation and high energy demand make it a key contributor to household bills.
Fortunately, adopting more efficient usage habits, performing regular maintenance, and adjusting settings can help reduce its impact without compromising comfort. These changes not only save money but also promote more responsible and sustainable energy consumption.
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