Most people think appliances cost money, but ChatGPT had a different take when I asked about surprising purchases that actually save cash. Instead of the usual advice about LED bulbs and programmable thermostats, ChatGPT highlighted appliances that most people wouldn’t consider money-savers. The artificial intelligence’s response focused on unexpected items that reduce energy bills, food waste and service costs.
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Here are the 10 surprising appliances ChatGPT recommended for saving money.
Countertop Dishwasher
ChatGPT’s reasoning was simple: Countertop dishwashers use far less water and energy than handwashing dishes or running full-sized dishwashers, especially for small households. Makes sense.
The AI said the math works because handwashing dishes typically uses 27 gallons of water compared to 3 to 4 gallons for a countertop dishwasher. For apartments or small families, this eliminates the waste of running a full-size dishwasher half-empty.
Energy savings add up too since these units heat less water and run shorter cycles. The initial cost of $200 to $400 pays for itself through lower utility bills within the first year for most users.
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Vacuum Sealer
The AI highlighted how vacuum sealers extend food shelf life, reduce waste and enable bulk buying without spoilage. This appliance works especially well for freezing meats, vegetables and meal preps.
Vacuum-sealed food lasts three to five times longer than regular storage methods. Meat that normally freezes for six months can last two to three years when vacuum sealed. This prevents food waste and allows you to take advantage of bulk pricing and sales.
The average family throws away $1,500 worth of food annually, so even preventing a fraction of that waste justifies the $50 to $150 cost of a vacuum sealer.
Smart Power Strips
ChatGPT noted that smart power strips automatically cut power to devices in standby mode, eliminating “phantom loads” that waste electricity even when devices aren’t actively being used.
These phantom loads account for 5% to 10% of residential electricity use. Devices like TVs, computers, gaming consoles and kitchen appliances draw power continuously when plugged in, even when turned off.
Smart power strips detect when devices enter standby mode and cut power completely. For a typical household, this saves $100 to $200 annually on electricity bills while costing just $30 to $60 for the power strips.
Portable Washing Machine
The AI recommended portable washing machines for small spaces or apartments as a way to skip laundromat costs while controlling water and electricity usage.
Laundromat visits typically cost $3 to $5 per load plus detergent, transportation and time. A portable washing machine eliminates these ongoing costs after the initial $150 to $300 purchase.
These machines also use less water than full-size washers and let you wash smaller loads more efficiently. For apartment dwellers without in-unit laundry, the convenience and savings make this a smart investment.
Bread Maker
ChatGPT explained that making your own bread is often cheaper and healthier than buying store-bought versions, especially for specialty loaves like gluten-free or organic bread.
Homemade bread costs about 50 cents to $1 per loaf compared to $2 to $6 for store-bought specialty breads. Families that eat bread regularly can save $200 to $400 annually while getting fresher, preservative-free products.
Bread makers also work for pizza dough, dinner rolls and other baked goods, expanding the savings potential beyond just sandwich bread.
Energy-Efficient Space Heater or Fan
The AI’s logic focused on heating or cooling single rooms without adjusting your entire home’s thermostat. This targeted approach reduces energy waste in unused spaces.
Heating or cooling your entire home to make one room comfortable wastes significant energy. Space heaters and fans let you maintain comfort in occupied rooms while keeping the main system at more efficient settings.
Modern energy-efficient models use minimal electricity while providing focused comfort. The savings come from reducing whole-house energy usage rather than the efficiency of the device itself.
Water-Saving Shower Head
ChatGPT highlighted how these devices use less water without sacrificing pressure, lowering both water and heating bills simultaneously.
Standard shower heads use 2 1/2 gallons per minute while water-saving models use 1 1/2 to 2 gallons per minute. For a family taking eight showers weekly, this saves about 2,000 gallons annually.
The savings include both water costs and the energy needed to heat that water. Combined savings typically range from $100 to $200 annually while the shower head costs just $20 to $50.
Air Fryer
The AI explained that air fryers use less electricity than full ovens and reduce oil usage while potentially encouraging more home-cooked meals instead of takeout.
Air fryers use about half the energy of conventional ovens because they heat smaller spaces more efficiently. They also cook faster, reducing overall energy consumption for many foods.
The bigger savings come from cooking at home more often. If an air fryer helps you avoid just two takeout meals monthly, it saves $50+ per month while costing $50 to $150 initially.
High-Speed Blender
ChatGPT noted that high-speed blenders enable making smoothies, nut milks, soups and sauces at home, cutting down on expensive store-bought versions.
Store-bought almond milk costs $3 to $4 per half gallon while homemade costs about $1. Premium smoothies cost $6 to $8 each but cost $1 to $2 to make at home with quality ingredients.
For households that regularly buy these products, a $200 to $400 high-speed blender pays for itself within months through ingredient savings and improved nutrition.
Electric Screwdriver or Small Tool Kit
The AI’s final recommendation focused on encouraging DIY home fixes and furniture assembly instead of paying for services.
Professional furniture assembly costs $50 to $100 per piece while basic tools enable DIY completion. Simple home repairs that might cost $100+ for professional service often require just basic tools and hardware store supplies.
Building a basic tool collection encourages self-reliance and saves money over time. Even occasional DIY projects quickly justify the initial tool investment.
Which Appliances Make the Most Sense
The best choices depend on your current spending patterns and living situation. Renters benefit most from portable options like countertop dishwashers and washing machines. Homeowners might focus on permanent installations like water-saving shower heads.
Calculate potential savings based on your actual usage patterns. If you spend $200 monthly on takeout, an air fryer makes sense. If you throw away lots of food, prioritize a vacuum sealer.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Asked ChatGPT What Surprising Appliances I Can Buy To Save Money — Here’s What It Said
