Looking for practical ways to reduce your energy bills? The most effective approach is to become more conscious of how you use energy at home. By making a few small, low-cost adjustments, you could save $480 or more each year (actual results may vary).
If you want even more home energy savings tips, download our free home energy guide.
1. Turn Off Unnecessary Lights
Switching off two 100-watt incandescent bulbs for an extra two hours each day throughout the year could save you $14. For even greater energy efficiency, consider switching to LED bulbs.
2. Use Natural Light Whenever Possible
A single south-facing window can illuminate significantly more space than a standard window. Turning off one 60-watt bulb for four hours a day can save about $8 annually.
3. Use Lamps or Task Lighting
Turn off ceiling lights when not needed and rely on table lamps, track lighting, or under-counter lighting. This simple energy-saving tip can save up to $7 per year.
4. Take Shorter Showers
Hot water is a major contributor to high utility bills. Reducing your shower time by just one minute could save up to $35 annually.
5. Turn Off the Tap During Daily Routines
Turning off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving can save thousands of gallons each year. Lowering hot water use by 5% could save around $18 annually.
6. Fix Leaks and Dripping Faucets
Even small leaks can increase your energy costs. Repairing a dripping hot water tap could save up to $11 per year.
7. Unplug Unused Electronics
Standby power can account for up to 10% of your household energy use. Unplugging devices when not in use could save around $48 annually.
8. Switch from a Desktop to a Laptop
Laptops are far more energy efficient than desktops. Using a laptop for a couple of hours each day could save over $10 per year.
9. Turn Off Air Conditioners When Not in Use
Turning off a window air conditioner while you are out of the house can reduce electricity usage and save about $18 over the summer.
10. Manage Your Thermostat
Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees can significantly reduce heating costs. A five-degree adjustment could save nearly $100 during winter.
11. Use Window Coverings Strategically
Blocking direct sunlight and improving airflow can reduce cooling needs. This home energy efficiency strategy can save up to $45 during warmer months.
12. Run Appliances with Full Loads Only
Reducing the number of laundry loads each week helps cut down on energy and water usage, saving about $17 annually.
13. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Switching to cold water washing is a simple energy-saving habit that can save up to $20 per year.
14. Hang Clothes to Dry
Air drying your laundry even part of the time can significantly reduce electricity costs, saving up to $60 annually.
15. Dry Full Loads Only
Running your dryer only when it’s full improves efficiency and reduces energy waste, saving up to $14 per year.
16. Optimize Refrigerator Efficiency
Keep seals tight and maintain proper airflow to improve appliance efficiency. This can help save up to $15 annually.
17. Skip the Heat-Dry Setting on Your Dishwasher
Turning off the heat-dry function can reduce energy consumption and save up to $29 per year.
18. Use Smaller Appliances Instead of the Oven
Microwaves, toaster ovens, and slow cookers use less energy than full-size ovens. Using them regularly can help lower your energy bill by about $11 annually.
Start Saving on Your Energy Bills Today
Small changes can lead to big savings over time. By adopting these energy-saving tips, you can reduce your household energy use and lower your monthly bills.