Energy Consumption of Electric Ranges

Key facts

• Self-cleaning ranges typically have been more energy-efficient than non-self-cleaning ranges.
• However, newer self-cleaning ranges use relatively more energy for options such as baking drawers and bridge elements.

Average annual unit energy consumption

• Between 2002 and 2006, unit energy consumption (UEC) for electric ranges dropped 29%.
• It has remained relatively unchanged since 2007, with a slight increase over the last three years.

The drop in UEC after 2002 does not entirely reflect an actual improvement in energy efficiency. In 2003, changes to the minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) reduced the frequency of the self-cleaning cycle. These changes affected the overall average annual UEC of self-cleaning ranges, which means that data prior to 2003 are not directly comparable with data after that date.

Check out our publication Choosing and Using Appliances With EnerGuide (PDF, 934 KB) for more information.

Average annual UEC of electric ranges, 1990–2015 (kWh/yr)

Self-cleaning vs non-self-cleaning ranges

Self-cleaning ranges have typically been more energy-efficient than non-self-cleaning ranges because they usually have better insulation. However, newer self-cleaning ranges tend to have more energy consuming options such as:

• Baking drawers
• True temperature systems to manage temperature
• Larger heating elements
• Bridge elements
• Warming zones

Non-self-cleaning ranges have become increasingly more efficient. Since 2007, they have consumed less energy on average than self-cleaning ranges.

Average annual UEC of electric ranges by type, 1990–2015 (kWh/yr)

Distribution of shipments by unit energy consumption

In 1990, 100% of shipped electric ranges consumed 600 kWh/yr or more.

By 2015, 46% of shipped ranges consumed fewer than 550 kWh/yr (some of this decrease is due to changes in how UEC ratings are now calculated).

Distribution of electric ranges by average annual UEC, 1990–2015 (%)