Electric Comsumption?

Question

What consumes the most electric in a house? I have 5 housemates in here, each with their own PCs. About 2 comps are on 24/7. And I have a average size fridge who's kinda old and sometimes it can't be closed tightly (which I think consumes alot of eletricity). Do you computers or fridge consumes the most?

owh. We don't really use water heater or anything that consume alot of electricity except the comps and the fridge. ^^

Answer 1

Between the fridge and the pc, the fridge uses more, however consider the type of pc monitor because old crt types use a fair amount so adding up a number of pc's with monitors may be higher. All appliances have the kw ratings on them so you can compare (these are maximum figures so bear in mind the fridge doesn't/shouldn't run continuously and you will need to factor that) Presumably you are students and at least one of you should be able to do the math.

If you want tips on saving power, make sure the pc monitors are turned off or go into power saving mode when not used. Pack the ice box/freezer with food or newspaper and adjust the level so the door shuts properly (screws underneath the fridge).

Finally, you have not mentioned some of the biggest users such as hot water heaters, cookers, electric space heaters.

Answer 2

Hands down, the fridge. Computers can draw 300-600 watts when used but when not used the run about 120-200 watts. The fridge can be 1700 watts when running and when the door doesn't seal it runs more and defrosts more.

Answer 3

You could guess the fridge, but it would be mere speculation. Find out for sure by taking measurements and going with the numbers. Get a Kill A Watt meter. I bought mine on eBay.
http://www.p3international.com/products/special/P4400/P4400-CE.html
http://www.the-gadgeteer.com/killawatt-review.html

Answer 4

ditto what he said..Refridgerator hands down costs more...5 computors together would be about the cost of the fridge alone