Energy Savings Tips
Here are actions to take around your house that can help you save energy.
Adjust your thermostat
Save up to 12% on your heating costs by programming a smart thermostat. In the cooler months, lowering your thermostat to the recommended temperature of 68 degrees will help you save money while you use less energy.
Replace your HVAC filter
Replacing your furnace filter every 3 months can save you up to 15% and will help your furnace run efficiently. A dirty filter also allows dander, mold and dust to circulate throughout your home.
Seal your home
Keep the heat and air conditioning indoors by caulking and weatherstripping your doors, windows, along molding and around electrical sockets and switches. Caulk, weatherstripping and window film kits are easy and inexpensive DIY options that can save you up to 30%.
Change your light bulbs
Swap your incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs and use 80% less energy. LED bulbs use less energy and are longer-lasting and are more durable than incandescent or CFL bulbs.
Open your blinds
76% of the sunlight that falls on your windows can heat your home. On sunny winter days, open your curtains on the sunny side of your home to help warm your space and reduce the need to turn up your furnace. Combine this step with a programmable smart thermostat and save!
Close your blinds after dark
30% of a home’s heat is lost through windows when the sun isn’t shining. In the evening, close your curtains and blinds to keep the heat in.
Set your ceiling fan
Set your ceiling fan to rotate counterclockwise in the summer, so you feel cooler. Set it to rotate clockwise in the winter to keep the warm air from rising to the ceiling. These simple changes can help you save up to 15% on your energy costs.
Move your furniture
Moving your furniture away from drafty windows and vents will keep you warmer in the winter and prevent you from turning up the heat. Obstructing vents also blocks heat and air conditioning, which wastes energy and may even pose a fire hazard.
Use your grill
Grilling outside instead of using your stove not only helps you use less energy but keeps your home cooler. You can also save by using a small appliance, like an air fryer.
Air-dry your clothes
Save up to 20% on your energy costs by not using your dryer.
Grow some shade
Planting the right tree in the place can make a difference. Shade trees can reduce your energy costs by 30%.
Warm up with rugs
Using area rugs can keep you warmer by retaining heat. They also feel nicer on your bare feet.
Use dryer balls
Throw in reusable wool balls rather than dryer sheets and cut your drying time nearly in half.
Open your windows
When the weather is good, open windows on opposite sides of the room. This encourages efficient air flow and lets the fresh air in.
Shorten your shower
Every drop counts! Shaving off just three minutes from an eight-minute shower can help reduce your energy spending and conserve water.
Switch to cold water
Wash clothes in cold water on the eco setting if possible. Washing in hot water uses up to 85% more energy.
Light up with LEDs
With LED bulbs, you can leave your porch light on and save energy. One LED bulb uses up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs. That’s a savings of more than $50 in electricity costs over the bulb’s lifetime. They also last up to 25 times longer than standard bulbs, so you’ll need to buy fewer bulbs, another savings.
Stock and save
A well-stocked fridge has less air to cool, so it doesn’t have to work as hard. And be sure not to block vents or open the door too often. Your fridge won’t work as hard, saving you money in the long run.
