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.
- Know your comfort settings. Setting your thermostat as high as comfortably possible can help you save money. The closer your home’s temperature is to the outdoor temperature, the less energy you will use.
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.