Skip to main content.
Header Image

Energy Saving Tips

Energy Efficiency Tips

Everyday changes. Everyday savings.

You don’t need a major overhaul to start saving energy. A few small tweaks at home can make a difference. Use the filter below to find easy ways to use less energy and save – day after day, season after season.

Year-Round Tips (Any Time of Year)

Free & Easy

  • Wash clothes in cold water. It saves energy and your clothes will last longer – plus, modern detergents work just as well in cold water as they do hot. 

  • Wait for a full load. Only run dishwashers and washing machines when they’re full. 

  • Turn off lights and electronics. Powering down when not in use cuts energy waste. 

  • Charge devices smartly. Avoid overnight charging to reduce energy drain. 

  • Use natural light. Open blinds during the day to light your space for free. 

  • Use fans wisely. They use less energy than heating or cooling systems – just make sure they’re rotating the right way for the season. 

  • Use the oven instead of the stovetop. It’s often more efficient and helps reduce heat in the kitchen. 

  • Switch devices to dark mode. It saves battery life on OLED screens and eases eye strain. 

  • Adjust rest mode settings on consoles. Shorten idle time to save energy when you step away. 

  • Turn off controllers automatically. Set a time limit for inactivity to reduce energy use. 

  • Turn off Xbox 'Instant-on' mode. Disabling this setting can cut standby energy use by nearly 98%. 

  • Stream smarter. Use devices like Roku or Fire Stick instead of consoles – they use far less energy. 

  • Air-dry dishes. Skip the heated drying cycle and crack the dishwasher door to let them dry naturally. 

  • Lower your water heater setting. Set it to 120°F to reduce unnecessary energy use. 

  • Defrost your freezer. Regular defrosting helps it run more efficiently. 

  • Use lids while cooking. It traps heat, speeds up cook time, and saves energy. 

  • Microwave more. Use the microwave for small meals instead of the oven. 

  • Run ceiling fans only when you're in the room. Fans cool people, not spaces. 

  • Check your fridge and freezer temps. Keep your fridge at 37–40°F and freezer at 0°F for efficiency. 

Smart, Low-Cost Upgrades

  • Switch to LED light bulbs. They use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs. 
  • Use power strips or smart plugs. Stop phantom energy loss and turn off multiple devices at once or on a schedule. 
  • Install low-flow showerheads. Save both water and the energy used to heat it. 
  • Install faucet aerators. Reduce water use while maintaining pressure. 
  • Add motion-sensor lights. Efficient and great for outdoor and utility spaces. 
  • Insulate water heater pipes. Helps retain heat and lower energy use. 
  • Use thermal curtains. Trap heat in winter and block it out in the summer. 

Big Impact Investments

  • Install a smart thermostat. Manage heating and cooling based on your schedule year-round. 

  • Upgrade to Energy Star appliances. Designed to use less power and water every day. 

  • Schedule a home energy audit or routine maintenance with a local HVAC professional. A pro can spot ways to boost your home's efficiency.

  • Install a heat pump. It provides energy-efficient heating and cooling all in one. 

  • Upgrade insulation in walls or floors. Not just attics – floors and crawlspaces matter too. 

 

Summer Tips (June – September)

Free & Easy

  • Close the blinds. Keep the sun out during the hottest parts of the day to help your home stay cool.
  • Use fans. Just be sure they’re set to run counterclockwise.
  • Grill outside. Avoid heating up your kitchen by cooking meals outdoors.
  • Follow the 20-degree rule. Set your AC no more than 20° cooler than the outside temperature to help it run more efficiently.

Smart, Low-Cost Upgrades

  • Install weatherstripping. Seal doors and windows to keep cool air inside.
  • Get a programmable thermostat. Cool your home only when you need to.

Big Impact Investments

  • Upgrade your AC unit. A high-efficiency system can cut cooling costs over time.
  • Add insulation to your attic. It blocks heat from entering your home.
  • Install energy-efficient windows. They help keep cool air in and hot air out.

 

Winter Tips (January, February, March, November, December)

Free & Easy

  • Open the blinds during the day. Let the sun help warm your home for free.
  • Close curtains at night. Keep heat inside by blocking the cold from windows.
  • Keep the garage door shut. Prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from coming in.
  • Lower the heat a bit. Try setting your thermostat to 68°F or drop it a degree or two to save even more energy.

Smart, Low-Cost Upgrades

  • Seal gaps and cracks. Use caulk or weatherstripping to keep out drafts.
  • Use a space heater. Keep warm where you are and leave your thermostat at 68°F or below, saving energy.
  • Add a door draft stopper. Block cold air from sneaking in under doors.
  • Throw down a rug. Rugs help insulate cold floors and make your space feel cozier.

Big Impact Investments

  • Upgrade your furnace. New models use less energy and work more efficiently.
  • Add insulation. Keep more warm air inside your home.
  • Replace old windows. New, energy-efficient ones help keep the cold out and the warmth in.

Transitional Months Tips (April, May, October)

Free & Easy

  • Open windows on cool days. Let in fresh air and take a break from AC or heat.
  • Hang clothes to dry. Take advantage of nice weather and skip the dryer.

Smart, Low-Cost Upgrades

  • Clean your HVAC filters. Help your system run better and use less energy.
  • Add window film. It helps with both heating and cooling throughout the year.

Big Impact Investments

  • Plant trees or shrubs. Create natural shade around your home, especially over your AC unit, helping it run more efficiently when summer arrives.