Appliances: Power Hungry vs. Power Savers

Knowing which appliances use the most (and least) electricity helps you target your efforts for maximum savings:

Highest Power Users (Per Hour)

• Heaters, especially fan/convector heaters: 2,000+ watts
• Hot Water Cylinders: Typically 3,000 watts (though cycling, not constant)
• Tumble Dryers: 2,000 – 4,000 watts
• Ovens & Cooktops: 2,000 – 3,000 watts
• Dishwashers & Washing Machines (hot wash): 1,500 – 2,000 watts
• Jugs / Kettles: 1,500 – 2,200 watts

Moderate Users (Per Hour)

• Fridge/Freezer: 100 – 400 watts (runs 24/7, so total energy adds up!)
• Microwaves: 800 – 1,200 watts (short bursts)
• Vacuum Cleaners: 700 – 1,200 watts

Lowest Power Users (Per Hour)

• Modern LED bulbs: 5 – 10 watts
• Mobile phone chargers: < 5 watts
• Laptops/tablets: 20 – 60 watts
• Wi-Fi routers/modems: 5 – 15 watts

Tip: Focus on big-ticket users first (like heating, hot water, dryers), and use them efficiently. Shifting their use to your Hour of Power, off peak rates or reducing their run-time, can really lower your bill.

For detailed home upgrade help, check the Warmer Kiwi Homes.