What is the Most Expensive Type of Device to Power and What is the Cheapest?
7016309225 • April 17, 2025
What Devices cost the most and the least to Power?
What is the Most Expensive Type of Device to Power? What is the Cheapest Type of Device to Power?
When it comes to powering devices in your home, not all electronics are created equal. Some use a lot more energy than others, leading to higher electricity bills. Understanding which devices are the most and least expensive to power can help you make smarter choices when it comes to managing your energy consumption. So, what are the most and least energy-hungry devices in the typical household? Let's break it down.
The Most Expensive Types of Devices to Power
The cost of powering a device depends on its energy consumption, which is usually measured in watts or kilowatts per hour (kWh). High-powered devices, or those that run for long periods, tend to be the most expensive to operate.
Air Conditioners and Heaters
One of the biggest contributors to high energy bills in the summer and winter months is your heating and cooling system. Air conditioners (especially central air conditioning) and space heaters can consume a lot of electricity, making them some of the most expensive devices to power.
• Air Conditioners: Central air conditioning systems, in particular, use a large amount of electricity. A typical central AC system can use anywhere from 2,000 to 5,000 watts per hour (depending on its size and efficiency). If you use air conditioning frequently during the summer months, this can add a significant amount to your monthly electricity bill.
• Electric Heaters: Electric space heaters are another high-consumption device, especially when used for long periods. On average, an electric heater uses around 1,500 watts per hour, and depending on how often it's running, this can really rack up costs over the winter.
Water Heaters
Water heaters are essential for daily activities like showering, doing dishes, and washing clothes. Unfortunately, they also consume a lot of energy, making them one of the most expensive household appliances to run.
• Traditional Water Heaters: Standard water heaters with a tank can use 3,000 to 4,500 watts per hour, depending on the model and the temperature settings. Because water heaters work constantly to maintain the desired temperature, they can be very energy-intensive, especially in larger households.
• Tankless Water Heaters: While tankless water heaters are more energy-efficient than traditional models (since they only heat water when needed), they can still consume a lot of electricity when in use, especially for households with high water usage.
Clothes Dryers
Clothes dryers are another household appliance that uses a significant amount of energy, especially if used frequently or for long drying cycles. A typical electric clothes dryer uses between 2,000 and 6,000 watts per load. The higher the wattage, the more energy it consumes, resulting in a higher cost to run.
In addition to their high energy consumption, dryers often run for extended periods, which increases the overall energy use. Air drying clothes, though not as convenient, is a more energy-efficient alternative.
Refrigerators
While refrigerators don’t use as much energy as some other devices on this list, they are still a constant drain because they run 24/7. Older, less efficient refrigerators tend to consume more energy, whereas newer, Energy Star-rated models are more efficient.
• Typical Refrigerators: A standard refrigerator uses between 100 and 800 kWh per year, depending on its size, age, and energy efficiency. While the energy consumption may seem low per hour, the continuous operation adds up over time.
Ovens and Stoves
Electric ovens and stovetops can also eat up a significant amount of energy, especially when used frequently for long periods. An electric oven can use anywhere from 1,000 to 5,000 watts per hour, depending on the heat setting and duration of use.
Gas-powered stoves are more efficient in terms of energy use, but they still contribute to energy bills, especially if you're cooking for long periods of time each day.
The Cheapest Types of Devices to Power
Now that we know which devices are the most expensive to run, let’s look at the devices that use the least energy and cost the least to operate. While these devices may not be as flashy or essential as a refrigerator or air conditioner, they still play an important role in day-to-day life—and they won’t break the bank in terms of energy costs.
LED Light Bulbs
LED light bulbs are hands-down the cheapest and most energy-efficient devices to power in your home. They use a fraction of the electricity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, which are notorious for wasting energy.
• Energy Consumption: A typical LED bulb uses only 8-12 watts of power, while an incandescent bulb of similar brightness uses about 60 watts. This means LED bulbs can save you up to 80% on lighting costs. Additionally, LEDs last much longer than traditional bulbs, further reducing the need for replacements.
LED bulbs are the most cost-effective way to light your home, and you can significantly reduce your electricity bill just by switching out older bulbs for newer, more efficient ones.
Smart Thermostats
While heating and cooling systems tend to consume a lot of power, smart thermostats can help reduce these costs by optimizing your energy usage. Smart thermostats learn your habits, adjust the temperature when you’re not home, and ensure that your heating and cooling systems aren’t running unnecessarily.
• Energy Efficiency: By allowing for better control over the heating and cooling of your home, smart thermostats can save you up to 10-15% on your energy bill, depending on usage patterns.
While the thermostat itself doesn’t consume much energy (usually just a few watts), it can help you significantly lower your overall heating and cooling costs, making it one of the more affordable devices to run in the long term.
Laptops and Tablets
Compared to desktop computers, laptops and tablets are far more energy-efficient. On average, a laptop consumes between 15 to 60 watts per hour, depending on the model, screen brightness, and how much processing power it requires. This is much less than a typical desktop computer, which can consume between 200 to 500 watts per hour.
• Tablets: Even more energy-efficient than laptops, tablets generally use only around 5 to 15 watts per hour. If you’re looking to save on electricity, swapping out your desktop for a laptop or tablet can make a noticeable difference.
Electric Fans
Electric fans use minimal power compared to other devices like air conditioners or space heaters. On average, a typical fan consumes around 75 to 100 watts per hour. Fans work by circulating air to create a cooling effect, and they can be a great alternative to air conditioning during milder temperatures.
Fans are especially useful in the spring and fall when the weather is not too extreme, and they can help lower your overall cooling costs by offering an energy-efficient way to stay comfortable.
Smart Plugs
Smart plugs themselves don’t consume a significant amount of energy (typically around 1-2 watts), but they can help you save money by allowing you to control when and how devices use energy. By scheduling devices to turn off when not in use, smart plugs can help you reduce the power usage of electronics that would otherwise run unnecessarily.
When it comes to energy use, some devices are inherently more power-hungry than others. Air conditioners, water heaters, and dryers are some of the most expensive devices to run, while LED light bulbs, laptops, and electric fans are some of the cheapest. Understanding which devices use the most and least energy can help you make more informed decisions about how to reduce your electricity consumption and lower your energy bills.
By making small adjustments—like swapping out old light bulbs, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, and using smart technology to control your home’s temperature—you can keep your home running efficiently without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Being mindful of your energy use not only benefits your wallet but also contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
Storm season is no joke—high winds, lightning, heavy rain, and power outages can do serious damage to your home’s electrical system. But with a little preparation and help from the pros, you can protect your home, your appliances, and your family’s safety. Here’s how to get your electrical system storm-ready: Install Whole-Home Surge Protection Lightning strikes and power fluctuations during storms can send dangerous surges through your electrical system. These spikes can damage: TVs and computers Refrigerators and HVAC systems Smart home devices 🔌 A whole-home surge protector installed at your electrical panel adds a crucial layer of defense, reducing the risk of expensive damage. Secure and Inspect Your Outdoor Electrical Components Storms bring wind and water—two things you don’t want messing with your electrical setup. Be sure to: Check that your outdoor outlets are GFCI-protected and weather-sealed Inspect exterior wiring, conduits, and boxes for damage or wear Secure loose electrical fixtures, lights, and wiring to prevent them from becoming storm debris 💧 Water + electricity = danger. Keeping everything sealed and elevated helps prevent shorts and shock risks. Consider a Backup Generator When the power goes out, a backup generator can keep the essentials running—lights, refrigerator, medical equipment, even your Wi-Fi. There are two main types: Portable generators – good for short outages, but must be operated outside with proper ventilation. Whole-home standby generators – kick on automatically and power large portions of your home. We install stand by generators! Read this blog about investing in a standby generator. ⚠️ Generators must be installed with proper transfer switches to prevent backfeeding into the grid—a serious safety hazard. Know Your Electrical Panel Your breaker panel is the heart of your home’s electrical system. In a storm: Know how to safely shut off power if needed Ensure all breakers are clearly labeled Have the panel inspected if it’s older or frequently tripping 🛠️ A storm is not the time to discover you’ve got an outdated or undersized panel. Schedule a Professional Electrical Inspection Before the storm season ramps up, have a licensed electrician inspect your: Panel and grounding system Surge protection setup Outdoor connections and GFCIs Backup power sources A proactive check-up can prevent dangerous surprises during severe weather. Stay Safe, Stay Powered 🌧️ Storms are unpredictable—but your electrical system doesn’t have to be. At KrisLee Electric, we help homeowners prepare for whatever Mother Nature throws their way. 📅 Book your storm prep inspection today and protect what matters most.
Summer is a season of sunshine, outdoor fun, and increased energy usage. From backyard barbecues to pool parties, your electrical system works overtime this time of year. That’s why electrical safety should be a top priority as temperatures—and power demands—start to rise. Here are our Top 5 Summer Electrical Safety Tips to help keep your home safe and powered all season long: Keep Outdoor Outlets and Cords Dry Summer often means more outdoor activity—and more outdoor power use. Whether you're plugging in lights, tools, or entertainment equipment, make sure: Outlets are GFCI-protected Cords and plugs are rated for outdoor use Everything stays dry and away from puddles or sprinkler spray 🔌 Tip: Invest in weatherproof outlet covers to stay protected even when outlets are in use. Don’t Overload Circuits or Extension Cords Plugging in fans, AC units, and more devices can quickly overload a single outlet or power strip. This can cause overheating, tripped breakers, or even fires. 🔥 Tip: Spread out your electrical load, and never daisy-chain extension cords. Watch for Heat-Related Electrical Warning Signs When temps go up, so does stress on your system. Be on the lookout for: Flickering lights Warm or discolored outlets Frequent breaker trips Unusual buzzing or smells from electrical panels If you notice any of these, it’s time to call a licensed electrician. Pool and Hot Tub Safety First Water and electricity are a dangerous mix. If you have a pool, spa, or hot tub: Make sure all wiring is up to code Equipment is installed by a professional Outdoor breakers and switches are GFCI protected 💧 Tip: Schedule an annual electrical inspection for your pool or hot tub setup—especially if it’s older. Prepare for Summer Storms and Power Surges 🌩️ Summer storms can knock out power or cause damaging surges. Protect your home by: Installing whole-home surge protection Using surge protectors on sensitive electronics Having a backup generator if you live in an area prone to outages Check out our blog that explains what a power surge is and how you can prevent one in your home.
Summer is here—and so are rising temps, longer days, and heavier use of electricity around the home and workplace. Whether it’s cranking up the AC, plugging in outdoor lights, or running tools and equipment for seasonal projects, June is the perfect time to make sure your electrical system is ready for the summer load. At KrisLee Electric, we want to help you stay cool, safe, and energy-efficient all season long. Here are a few things to keep in mind this month: Test and Tune Your AC System Before summer heat hits full force, make sure your air conditioner is wired properly and running on a dedicated circuit. An overloaded circuit can trip breakers—or worse, cause damage or fire hazards. Check Outdoor Outlets and Lighting Using outdoor equipment, string lights, or pool accessories? Make sure all exterior outlets are: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected Covered with weatherproof enclosures Free from wear, damage, or corrosion Don't Overload Extension Cords With more activities moving outdoors—grills, fans, lawn tools, you name it—resist the temptation to daisy-chain extension cords. They’re meant for temporary use and can become serious fire hazards when overloaded. Plan for Summer Projects the Smart Way Thinking of installing a hot tub, EV charger, or outdoor kitchen? Don’t wait until you're halfway through—involve an electrician early to ensure everything’s up to code and safely installed. Schedule an Electrical Safety Check June is a great time for a mid-year inspection—especially if your home is older or you’ve recently added appliances or technology. Need a Hand? We’re Just a Call Away! From routine maintenance to full system upgrades, our licensed electricians are here to help you power through summer—safely and efficiently. 📅 Book your June service today and beat the summer rush!
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