As temperatures drop and household heating demands rise, electricity consumption is once again taking center stage in family budgets.
However, heating alone isn’t the only culprit behind higher electricity bills. Certain everyday appliances consume significant amounts of energy, especially when running for extended periods of time. Heating and air conditioning specialists are drawing attention to three devices found in many homes: the electric water heater, the air conditioner, and the electric iron.
Using these appliances correctly — combined with small changes in daily habits — can reduce energy consumption without necessarily compromising household comfort.
Electric water heater: how it can drive up your consumption
The electric water heater is one of the appliances that can significantly increase your electricity bill, as it requires high power output to heat water.
Storage water heaters in particular consume energy not only to heat the water, but also to compensate for heat losses while maintaining water at a high temperature.
Experts recommend using a timer or scheduling feature so the appliance operates only when the household actually needs it.
Energy savings depend on the unit’s capacity, insulation quality, operating temperature, and hot water consumption habits.
It’s also important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines on safe storage temperatures, as reducing them too much can create health risks.
Air conditioner in heating mode: what temperature is recommended
Air conditioners are a popular choice for home heating, especially models equipped with inverter technology.
However, their energy consumption is affected by the selected temperature, running time, the unit’s energy efficiency rating, and the home’s insulation.
One of the key recommendations is to set the thermostat to around 20–21 degrees Celsius, as this range provides adequate comfort without overworking the unit.
Activating the ECO mode, where available, can also help reduce energy consumption.
Specialists advise against extreme temperature settings and unnecessary mode switching. That said, keeping an air conditioner running continuously is not always more economical than turning it off — especially when the home is empty for several hours.
Electric iron: short use, high power draw
Another appliance that can add to your energy consumption is the electric iron.
Although it typically runs for shorter periods than a water heater or air conditioner, it requires high electrical power to reach the temperature needed for ironing.
Frequent use — particularly over extended sessions — increases overall consumption.
A practical solution is to batch your ironing into fewer sessions rather than heating the iron repeatedly throughout the day.
Steps you can take to lower your electricity bill
Beyond how individual appliances are used, the overall management of home heating plays a significant role in energy savings.
Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge (MITECO) includes among its recommendations adjusting temperatures room by room, avoiding heat loss during ventilation, and using appropriate thermostats.
Reducing heating when rooms are not in use is also especially important, as is limiting heat loss through windows and doors.
Actual savings, however, vary from home to home and depend on factors such as insulation, house size, heating type, and daily needs.
The key takeaway is that cutting your electricity bill doesn’t necessarily mean avoiding your electrical appliances — it means using them more efficiently. Setting the right temperature and controlling operating hours can make a real difference in your household’s energy consumption.
