When most people think about high electricity consumption, air conditioners usually come to mind. However, some everyday household appliances quietly use up even more power—especially when left plugged in. These “energy vampires” can drastically raise your electricity bills without you even realizing it. Here are five appliances that often consume more electricity than your AC if you forget to unplug them.

1. Refrigerators and Freezers

Why: They run 24/7 to keep food cold or frozen.

Power usage: A standard fridge can consume 100–800 kWh per year, depending on size and efficiency. Older models are especially power-hungry.

Tip: Keep coils clean, set to the right temperature, and avoid overstuffing to save energy.

2. Electric Water Heaters