6 Money-Draining Appliances To Quit or Cut Down on

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Ever wondered why energy bills keep climbing? It’s not just inflation — some of the appliances lurking in your home are quietly running up the tab. While a few might be non-negotiable, others simply aren’t worth the wallet drain month after month.

Here’s a closer look at six of the energy-draining offenders, their average wattage, average costs and how to cut back without sacrificing too much comfort.

Actual costs may vary depending on usage patterns, local electricity rates and the energy provider’s pricing structure, so it’s worth checking a recent bill or using an energy calculator to get a clearer picture of the impact.

Clothes Dryers

• Average Wattage: 2,790
• Average Annual Cost: $120.58

Few appliances rival the convenience of a clothes dryer, but that convenience comes at a steep price. Dryers are notorious for being one of the most energy-intensive appliances in the home.

The simple fix? Air drying. Not only does it save money, but it also extends the life of clothes. If a dryer is non-negotiable, try using lower heat settings or dryer balls to cut down on energy use.

Refrigerators

• Average Wattage: 225
• Average Annual Cost: $302.40

That second refrigerator in the garage or basement might seem handy, but older models especially are major energy hogs. An outdated fridge can cost twice as much to run as a newer Energy Star model.

Consider whether that extra fridge is really necessary. If the answer is no, unplug it. If it’s essential, upgrading to an energy-efficient option can pay for itself in savings within a few years.

Space Heaters

• Average Wattage: 1,320
• Average Annual Cost: $199.80

Space heaters promise quick, targeted warmth but often at an eye-watering cost. They’re inefficient, especially when used for extended periods or in multiple rooms.

Instead, focus on better home insulation to keep heat from escaping. If supplemental heating is absolutely necessary, invest in an energy-efficient space heater with built-in thermostats and timers.

Water Heaters

• Average Wattage: 4,500
• Average Cost: $400 to $600

Water heaters are silent energy consumers, constantly working in the background. Older models are particularly inefficient, but lowering the water temperature can save a significant chunk of change without any noticeable difference.

For those looking to make a big change, a tankless water heater — heating water only as needed — is worth considering.

Dishwashers

• Average Wattage: 330
• Average Cost: $103.68

Dishwashers are deceptively expensive to run, especially when they’re operated daily or on inefficient settings. People looking to save can skip the heated drying cycle and let dishes air dry instead.

For smaller households, washing by hand using a basin of water can be more cost-effective than running a half-empty dishwasher.

Central Air Conditioners

• Average Wattage: 3,000 to 3,500
• Average Cost: $324

Air conditioning is often a necessity during the summer, but it’s one of the priciest appliances to operate.

Simple fixes like using ceiling fans, closing curtains during the hottest parts of the day and sealing any gaps around windows and doors can reduce the need for AC. Regularly cleaning filters also helps ensure the unit is running efficiently.

Small Changes for Big Savings

Energy-draining appliances don’t just inflate bills — they take money that could be put to better use. Replacing outdated models, adopting energy-efficient habits and reevaluating whether certain conveniences are truly worth it can lead to serious savings over time. With a few adjustments, it’s easy to cut back without feeling like anything’s missing.

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