Household electrical energy consumption is typically studied in two categories: a) energy consumption for familiar end uses, and b) energy consumption for miscellaneous (other or residual) end use. Assignment of the different electrical energy uses to these two categories is not standardized, with different research groups using different assignments. Familiar end uses generally include space heating, air conditioning, water heating, refrigeration, cooking, clothes drying, dish washing, lighting, television, and furnace fans. Miscellaneous end use includes all other end uses such as audio system, humidifier, microwave, vacuum cleaner, well pump, etc. Since a standard classification of appliances that can be used in energy studies does no.t exist, and the energy consumption of appliances in the "miscellaneous" category can be significant, a classification of appliances is developed below based on:
- the results of studies reported in the literature,
- available Statistics Canada data,
- estimates and engineering calculations.
This classification reflects estimated energy consumption and market saturation, and will be the basis for the survey protocols that will be developed.