Low/No Cost Tips
There are many simple steps you can take to use energy more efficiently that cost nothing more than the time it takes to develop energy-savings habits.
In the kitchen
Microwave your meals
A microwave uses two-thirds less energy than your stove and keeps the kitchen cooler in the summer.
Use your dishwasher
Your dishwasher uses less water than washing dishes by hand. Be sure the dishwasher is full, and then let dishes air-dry to save even more.
Keep the refrigerator full
A full fridge keeps it from warming up too fast when the door is open. Your fridge doesn't have to work as hard to stay cool.
Around the house
Adjust your thermostat
Set your thermostat to 78 degrees in the summer and 65 degrees in the winter when you are home, and 85 and 58 degrees, respectively, when you are away or sleeping.
Wash your clothes in warm or cold water
Do your laundry more energy-efficiently by using the warm or cold water setting for washing your clothes. Always use cold water to rinse clothes.
Dry your clothes in energy-saving ways
1. Line dry clothes whenever you can.
2. When using the dryer, run full loads and clean the clothes dryer lint trap after each use.
Close or open the curtains
During the summer, close curtains on east, south and west-facing windows to block the heat of the sun. In the winter, open the curtains on these same windows to let in the sun’s warmth.
Turn off appliances
Turn off appliances, lights and equipment when not in use. Unplug electronic devices and chargers when they aren't in use. Most new electronics use electricity even when switched "off." Turn computers and printers off at the power strip.
Replace filters
Replace filters on your air conditioner and furnace in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations to help ensure your systems are operating at optimal efficiency.
