In most houses, appliances remain linked to the outlet throughout the year. Although it is known that equipment such as the refrigerator or the drying machine is among those who consume the most, there is a device that can surprise by the impact on the light invoice: the electric oven.
This appliance, present in virtually all kitchens, is distinguished by the power level required to function. According to the Spanish newspaper As, and unlike the refrigerator, which only keeps the cold stable inside, the oven needs to reach high temperatures and keep them for long periods.
This difference explains why the average consumption of an oven can range from 40 to 90 kWh per month, a value that quickly accumulates after a year on the light bill.
Comparison with other appliances
A common electric oven has a power ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 watts. An efficient refrigerator is between 300 and 800 watts, with annual consumption that, in some models, does not exceed 200 kWh.
According to the AS, and according to a study in France, regular use of an oven can represent up to 224 kWh per year, depending on the brand, size and frequency of use. That is, it can spend more energy than a refrigerator, even being used for much less time.
The difference is mainly in the effort required to heat the inner air and maintain constant temperature, a process that requires high energy peaks.
Hidden consumption
What many consumers are unaware of is that the oven can spend energy even when it is not in operation. The reason is on digital clocks or electronic panels that remain active in waiting mode.
This residual consumption can reach 67 watts, representing between 5% and 26% of the total annual expense of the device. Small numbers that, added over the months, eventually translate into euros on the light bill.
For those who want to save, this detail should not be ignored.
There are ways to reduce the expense
Despite being one of the most energy -demanding appliances, it is possible to adopt some habits that help reduce expense. One of the simplest is to avoid opening the oven door during cooking, as each opening is losing heat and forces the device to warm again.
Another practical measure is to turn off the oven a few minutes before the end of the clothing. The residual heat inside will be sufficient to finish cooking, without the need to maintain consumption active until the end.
It is also recommended to completely turn off the outlet oven whenever it is not being used, especially in models with digital panels.
The importance of energy efficiency
The experts, cited by, also warn of the need to evaluate the energy label before buying a new oven. More recent and efficient models may represent significant savings over time, compensating for the initial investment.
In addition, proper use of the device, associated with good clothing practices, helps not only to reduce consumption but also prolong the life of the equipment.
In high energy prices, these simple strategies make a difference in the monthly budget of families.
Also read:
