Tips to Save Energy at Home

Unplug It

• Unplug cell phones, gaming systems, and tablets after they’re charged. Devices that are kept plugged in will continue to use electricity even after their fully charged.
• Unplug appliances that you don’t regularly use. Many devices (especially those with illuminated displays) continue to use electricity even when they’re switched off.
• Going on vacation? This is a great time to unplug devices and appliances that won’t be used.

Turn it Off

• Turn off fans and lights in unoccupied rooms.
• Plug things like TVs and gaming systems into power strips and switch them off when you’re not using them.
• Dry laundry on a clothesline if possible.

Turn it On

• Use energy efficient LED light bulbs.
• Set the thermostat to 78° or higher in the summer.
• Purchase ENERGY STAR® appliances that use less energy.
• Install smart, programmable thermostats.
• Install timer switches on indoor lights.
• Install motion detectors or solar-powered lights outside.

Cool it Down

• Run ovens, dishwashers, and clothes dryers during the cooler part of the day since they give off heat.
• Use fans to help make rooms feel cooler.
• Close window blinds and curtains on hot days.
• Grill meals outside when possible.
• Use microwave or toaster ovens (instead of conventional ovens which raise the temperature inside your home).

Fill it Up

• Run your dishwasher, clothes washer, and dryer with full loads (instead of doing multiple small loads) to use less electricity and hot water.
• Keep your refrigerator more than half full. (The contents of your refrigerator will actually help maintain the cool interior temperature.)

Clean it Up

• Clean or replace central air conditioner filters regularly.
• Clean clothes dryer lint filters after each load of laundry.
• Clean air conditioner outdoor condenser coil yearly.
• Vacuum refrigerator coils regularly. (This is especially important if you have pets and this will also help extend the life of your refrigerator!