What uses the most energy in the average Chelan County home? The answer may surprise you!

The Answers

Ranking from the most electricity to least electricity used in the average inefficient Chelan County home in a year along with tips to save energy:

1. Heating (48%): Switching to a heat pump uses 50% less energy than an electric resistance furnace or baseboard heaters. 
2. Other Electronics (16%): Use smart power strips and/or unplug electronics when not in use to reduce energy waste.
3. Water Heating (15%): Set water temperature at the recommended 120°F. Switching to a heat pump (hybrid) water heater can use up to 70% less energy. 
4. Main Appliances (11%): Switch to ENERGY STAR® appliances and follow energy-saving tips to save energy. 
5. Air Conditioning (6%): Before lowering the temperature at the thermostat, try using a fan! The breeze will help you feel about 4 degrees cooler.
6. Lights (4%): LED lights use significantly less energy. Use motion sensors and photocells for better outdoor lighting. 

What about the electric vehicle? On average, an electric vehicle would consume just over 3,000 kWh of energy a year, which is about a 10% increase in electricity usage for the example household and about $85 extra in Chelan PUD energy costs.

Sources: Home energy usage estimates were calculated using Chelan PUD customer energy usage data and the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance RBSA report on average household energy consumption.

How Much Does Energy Efficiency Help? 

Quite a bit! Chelan PUD residential rebates and our other energy efficiency programs are here to help you reduce energy waste — spending less on electricity while increasing the comfort of your home. 

• An energy-efficient home uses about 42% less electricity. 
• A super-efficient home uses up to 78% less electricity.