Want to save money and reduce energy waste at home? Here are 10 simple tips you can apply today:
- Turn off lights when not in use or install motion sensors.
- Use smart power strips to stop phantom power from unused devices.
- Switch to ENERGY STAR LED bulbs for lower energy use and longer lifespan.
- Install smart thermostats to automatically adjust your home’s temperature.
- Replace HVAC filters monthly to keep your system efficient.
- Adjust thermostat settings by season – try 78°F in summer, 68°F in winter.
- Use small appliances like toaster ovens or air fryers for smaller meals.
- Run full loads and use cold water for laundry and dishwashing.
- Unplug rarely used devices to reduce vampire power.
- Group devices on power strips for easy control and energy savings.
Quick Tip: Start small with LED bulbs or smart power strips – easy upgrades with fast savings. Over time, combine strategies like smart thermostats and regular HVAC maintenance for even bigger results.
These changes are simple, affordable, and can make a noticeable difference in your utility bills while helping the environment.
20 Ways to Save Energy and MONEY around your Home
1. Switch Off Lights and Use Motion Sensors
Save energy by turning off lights whenever a room isn’t in use. To make it even easier, install motion sensors that automatically switch off lights in empty spaces. This straightforward change can help reduce unnecessary energy consumption and set the stage for further energy-saving efforts.
2. Stop Phantom Power with Smart Strips
Did you know that many electronics still use power even when turned off? This is called standby or phantom power. Smart power strips can help by automatically cutting off power to devices that aren’t in use, saving energy and money.
Smart strips come with three types of outlets:
- Control outlets: These monitor a main device, like a TV, and detect when it’s in standby mode.
- Switched outlets: These shut off power to connected devices when the main device is inactive.
- Always-on outlets: These provide uninterrupted power to devices that need to stay on, like routers or alarm systems.
3. Switch to ENERGY STAR LED Bulbs
Make the switch to ENERGY STAR LED bulbs to cut down on energy consumption. These bulbs consume less electricity and outlast traditional incandescent ones.
Focus on areas where lights are used the most:
- Kitchen lighting: Perfect for task-oriented spaces.
- Living room fixtures: Ideal for spaces with frequent use.
- Outdoor security lights: Great for long-lasting durability.
After upgrading your lighting, consider improving energy efficiency further with smart temperature controls.
4. Set Up Smart Temperature Controls
Smart thermostats can help manage your home’s temperature based on your daily routine, reducing energy use when you’re not home or during the night. These devices can even use features like geofencing to adjust settings based on your location.
Here’s how to make the most of your smart thermostat:
- Set sleep mode for cooler or warmer temperatures at night, depending on the season.
- Schedule energy-saving modes during times when no one is home.
- Program it to return to your preferred settings shortly before you arrive back.
Let the thermostat do the work by learning your habits instead of constantly adjusting it yourself. For even more precise control, consider a model with occupancy sensors to focus heating or cooling on areas that are in use.
After setting up your thermostat, remember to maintain your HVAC filters regularly to improve efficiency even further.
5. Change HVAC Filters Every Month
Swap out your HVAC filter every month to maintain system efficiency and reduce energy costs. When filters get clogged, your system has to work harder, which drives up energy consumption. Set a monthly reminder to check and replace the filter as needed.
6. Adjust Thermostat Settings by Season
For optimal comfort and energy savings, change your smart thermostat settings with the seasons. A good starting point is 78°F during the summer and 68°F in the winter. You can tweak these temperatures based on your preferences and the specific climate where you live.
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7. Choose Small Appliances When Possible
Kitchen appliances can be another way to cut down on energy use. Full-sized ovens often use more energy than necessary for smaller meals. Instead, compact options like toaster ovens, air fryers, and microwaves heat up quickly and focus energy only where it’s needed.
Here’s how you can make smarter appliance choices:
- Toasting bread? Stick with a toaster.
- Cooking for one? Try an air fryer or toaster oven.
- Reheating leftovers? A microwave gets the job done efficiently.
- Baking small batches? Use a toaster oven for a few cookies or a personal pizza.
8. Run Full Loads on Cold Settings
To save energy, make sure to use appliances like washers and dishwashers only when they’re fully loaded. Running laundry cycles with cold water can also cut down on energy consumption since heating water uses a lot of power. Plus, most modern detergents are formulated to clean effectively in cold water.
- Wash clothes in cold water and wait for a full load before starting the machine.
- Only run your dishwasher when it’s completely full.
These small adjustments can make a noticeable difference in reducing energy use.
9. Unplug Devices You Rarely Use
Some household devices quietly draw power even when turned off, often called "vampire power." Addressing this is an easy way to cut down on energy use.
Here’s how to handle it:
- Devices like old DVD players, backup monitors, secondary TVs, and equipment with displays can still consume energy while inactive.
- Group rarely used devices in specific areas and check them monthly to unplug as needed.
Consider unplugging these items:
- Holiday decorations and portable AC units
- Exercise machines with digital displays
- Outdated entertainment systems
- Kitchen gadgets like blenders or food processors
- Charging stations not in use
- Electronics in guest rooms
Quick tip: Use colored tape to label the cords of devices you should unplug regularly. This makes monthly energy checks faster and easier.
Focus on unplugging items you don’t use often, but keep essentials like Wi-Fi routers or cable boxes plugged in if they need to stay powered.
10. Use Power Strips to Control Multiple Devices
Once you’ve unplugged devices you rarely use, power strips can help you manage the rest more efficiently. They allow you to turn off several devices at once, cutting down on standby power and reducing unnecessary energy use.
For example, connect your TV, gaming console, and streaming box to a single power strip. This way, you can completely switch off your entertainment system when it’s not in use. Similarly, group your home office gear – like your computer, monitor, and printer – on one power strip to stop them from drawing power when idle. It’s a simple way to keep energy waste in check.
Cost and Savings Guide
Energy-efficient upgrades can help you save money without spending a fortune upfront. Here’s a breakdown of what you might spend and how much you could save:
- Smart power strips: Priced at $15–$40, they cut down on standby power usage. Savings vary based on your household’s energy habits and utility rates.
- LED bulbs: Costing $2–$5 each, they consume less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer, lowering electricity bills over time.
- Programmable thermostats: Basic models start at $20, while advanced smart systems can go up to $200. Both options can lead to noticeable heating and cooling savings.
Energy Upgrade Cost Chart
| Upgrade | Upfront Cost | Annual Savings | Payback Period | Ease of Setup |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LED Bulbs | $2–$5 per bulb | $30–$50 per bulb | A few months | Easy |
| Programmable Thermostat | $20–$200 | $180–$250 | 1–2 years | Moderate |
| Smart Power Strips | $15–$40 | $25–$75 | Several months | Easy |
| HVAC Filters | $10–$20 each | $50–$100 | Immediate | Easy |
| Motion Sensors | $15–$30 per sensor | $20–$50 | Several months | Moderate |
Pro tip: Start small with LED bulbs and smart power strips for quick savings and simple installation. As your savings grow, you can move on to bigger upgrades like programmable thermostats.
Your savings will depend on factors like:
- Local utility rates
- Seasonal and climate variations
- Current energy habits
- Efficiency of existing appliances
To maximize your savings, combine strategies. For example, pair a programmable thermostat with regular HVAC filter changes to make a bigger impact.
Conclusion
Saving energy doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By combining practical upgrades with everyday mindful habits, you can cut down on utility costs while contributing to a healthier planet.
Even small adjustments can add up over time, leading to noticeable savings and a positive impact on the environment. Incorporate these tips into your routine to make energy efficiency a lasting part of your life.
Get started today:
- Adjust your thermostat to more efficient settings – it costs nothing.
- Invest in budget-friendly upgrades over time.
- Keep an eye on your utility bills to see the difference.
- Involve your household in making energy-smart choices.
FAQs
How can smart thermostats help reduce energy waste, and are they a good investment for your home?
Smart thermostats can significantly reduce energy waste by learning your daily routines and adjusting your home’s temperature automatically. They allow you to program heating and cooling schedules, monitor energy usage, and even control your thermostat remotely through a smartphone app. This ensures your home stays comfortable while avoiding unnecessary energy consumption.
While the upfront cost of a smart thermostat can range from $100 to $300, many households find them a worthwhile investment. Over time, the energy savings – often reflected in lower utility bills – can offset the initial expense. Additionally, some utility companies offer rebates for installing energy-efficient devices like smart thermostats, making them even more affordable.
What is phantom power, and how can smart power strips help reduce it?
Phantom power, also known as standby power, refers to the electricity used by devices and appliances when they are turned off but still plugged in. This can include TVs, chargers, gaming consoles, and other electronics that draw power even when not in active use.
Smart power strips can help reduce phantom power by automatically cutting off electricity to devices that are in standby mode. Some smart power strips even come with features like timers or motion sensors to optimize energy savings. By using these, you can save money on your energy bill and reduce waste effortlessly.
Which areas in my home benefit the most from switching to LED bulbs for energy savings?
Switching to LED bulbs in high-use areas of your home can make a significant impact on energy savings. Focus on rooms where lights are used the most, such as the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms. Replacing bulbs in outdoor fixtures and hallways, where lights are often left on for extended periods, can also lead to noticeable savings.
LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them a smart choice for reducing energy waste and cutting down on your electricity bill.
