Energy-Saving Tips for Your Household
Cutting household energy use doesn't require a full renovation. Many of the most effective changes are small habits or one-time adjustments that add up significantly over a year.
Seal drafts around doors and windows
Weatherstripping and door sweeps are inexpensive and can be installed in an afternoon, and they prevent conditioned air from leaking out around gaps that are easy to overlook.
Switch to LED lighting
LED bulbs use a fraction of the electricity of incandescent bulbs and last far longer, so the upfront cost is typically recovered within the first year of use.
Use a programmable or smart thermostat
Adjusting the temperature a few degrees while you're asleep or away from home can meaningfully reduce heating and cooling costs without noticeably affecting comfort.
Unplug idle electronics
Many devices draw a small amount of power even when turned off, sometimes called phantom load. A power strip that can be switched off for a group of devices — like a TV, gaming console, and sound system — makes this easy to manage.
Wash clothes in cold water
Modern detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water, and heating water accounts for a large share of the energy a washing machine uses per cycle.
Maintain your HVAC system
Replacing air filters regularly and having the system serviced keeps it running efficiently. A clogged filter forces the system to work harder to move the same amount of air.
Use curtains strategically
Opening curtains on sun-facing windows during cold months can add free warmth, while closing them during hot afternoons keeps a room cooler without extra air conditioning.