When calculating your energy costs, we hear a lot about the average energy usage, but what does that mean? In our article below, we explore what this means, so you can easily calculate your energy costs.
What is the average household energy usage in the UK?
The average household energy usage is based on many factors, including:
- The size of your home
- The number of people that live in your home
- How energy efficient your home is
- How energy efficient your appliances are
- How many times do you use your appliances per day
The average annual usage for a medium-sized household is:
Electricity: 2,900kWh per annum
Gas: 12,000kWh per annum
The government’s Energy Price Guarantee is designed to limit the dual fuel energy bills of the above-average home to £2,500 based upon these usage estimates.
The amount you will pay per year will depend on how much electricity and gas you use and whether you pay by direct debit.
Average electricity usage per day in the UK?
The average annual usage for electricity is 8kWh per day. This is based on a medium-sized house (2-3 bedrooms, with 2-3 people)
Average gas usage per day in the UK?
The average annual usage for gas is 33kWh per day. This is based on a medium-sized house (2-3 bedrooms, with 2-3 people)
What is the average kWh daily usage for different house sizes?
Here’s a table that breaks down energy usage by home size. You can see the average gas and electricity usage per kWh per day.
| Energy Use | House Size | Average daily gas usage | Average daily electricity usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low | Flat or 1-bedroom house; 1-2 people | 21.91kWh per day | 4.93kWh per day |
| Medium | 2-3 bedroom house; 2-3 people | 32.87kWh per day | 7.94kWh per day |
| High | 4+ bedroom home; 4-5 people | 46.57kWh per day | 11.78kWh per day |
Source: Ofgem.
What appliances use the most electricity in the house?
Your big ticket appliances typically use the most energy at home:
- Washing machines, tumble dryers, and dishwashers comprise around 14% of your energy consumption.
- Refrigerators and Freezers – make up around 13% of your energy consumption.
- Laptops, computers, TVs, Games consoles – make up around 6% of your energy consumption.
- Lighting – makes up around 5% of energy consumption
- Hob, oven, kettle, microwave – makes up about 4% of your energy consumption
*Read our guide on how much energy your home appliances use.
How can I reduce the overall energy usage of my home?
We have looked into ways to reduce your energy usage and have put together an in-depth article on home energy saving tips.
But here are some quick tips for reducing home energy usage:
- Turning down the thermostat
- Getting the most out our radiators
- Get a Smart Meter
- Energy Saving Plugs
- Home Insulation
