Below is a list of the best and easiest energy-efficiency tips that you can do at home to help reduce your energy usage and save big on your energy bills! Once you understand how energy works and that heat is the biggest energy waster, it gets easier to make a habit of these small changes. Watch the videos to learn more tips or “how to”.
Air Dry Laundry
Dryers use a lot of electricity. Try using a clothesline or rack instead. Also clean your dryer vents inside before a new load and outside once a year.
Air Dry Dishes
Let dishes air dry instead of using a heated dry cycle. It will also extend the life of your dishwasher. Also try handwashing small items and placing on a dry rack.
Wash Laundry in Cold Water
Modern detergents do a great job & cold water will not affect cleanliness and preserves fabric color. Hot water requires much more energy per load, with about 75-90% of the total used going toward heating the water so switch to using cold water that will save energy and your garments too!
Clean Refrigerator Coils
Clean dust and debris from your condenser coils behind or underneath your refrigerator every 6 months to maintain efficiency (that is IF the refrigerator is not a “sealed” system – check the manual). Also remove ice build up in Freezer.
Control Thermostat for Savings
Keep Summer temps at 78° F when home (up 2-4° F when away), Winter temps at 68° F when home (down 2-4° F when away). Investing in a programmable thermostat could save up to $150/year.
Turn off Unused Electronics
When not using electronic devices or appliances turn them off or unplug them if there is no off switch. You can save as much as 14-23% of energy. Plug in multiple appliances (like TVs, game consoles, computers, microwaves) on a power strip to turn off easily at night.
Improve Air Flow & Fan Use
Make sure furniture isn’t covering your vents or A/C units, and keep interior doors open to maintain airflow. Only use fans when you are in the room. Switch the fan direction – in winter clockwise and in summer counter-clockwise.
Maintain Heat Pump / Mini-Split
A clean properly running heat pump/mini-split can save a tremendous amount of money on your heat bill (up to 50%). Hire an HVAC Contractor to service it annually. Replace/clean your air filters every 1-2 months.
Open & Close Windows/Drapes
In summer months, close windows and drapes/blinds to keep the house cooler. In winter months, open drapes/blinds in south-facing windows to bring in more heat from sunlight, but close at night to help keep out the cold.