In 2023, state utility regulators approved $9.7 billion worth of net rate increases, driving up costs for consumers throughout much of the United States. If you’ve been struggling to keep your power bill in check, use these 11 energy-saving tips for appliances and electronics to reduce energy usage and get a better handle on your utility costs.
1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Models
Older appliances aren’t as efficient as new ones, so upgrading can save you a bundle of money. For example, switching to ENERGY STAR appliances can save you as much as 20% on your monthly utility costs. As an added bonus, buying energy-efficient appliances may help you qualify for tax credits, manufacturer rebates and other financial incentives, maximizing your savings.
2. Wash Clothing in Cold Water
When you wash clothing in hot water, 90% of the energy consumed goes toward heating, so using cold water can help you save a substantial amount of money. Using cold water can also help you prevent damage to colorful fabrics or delicate items, reducing the cost of maintaining your wardrobe. If you can’t use cold water, try turning the temperature from hot to warm to reduce energy usage.
3. Use the Microwave Whenever Possible
Microwaves use up to 80% less energy than ovens, making them one of the most energy-efficient appliances in your home. If you’re reheating leftovers, put them in the microwave instead of heating them in the oven. Microwave cooking is also ideal for preparing small portions of food.
4. Keep the Oven Door Closed
Whether you’re baking a pie or cooking a giant turkey for Thanksgiving, it’s important to leave the oven door closed. Heat escapes every time you open the door, forcing your oven to work harder to maintain your desired cooking temperature. Additionally, heat loss may cause food to cook unevenly, leaving parts of your meal cold or raw.
5. Defrost Your Freezer Regularly
Your freezer is supposed to be cold, but it’s not supposed to have a layer of ice inside of it. When ice builds up, it acts as an insulator, making it difficult for the freezer to stay cold. As a result, the unit has to cycle on more frequently, using additional energy. To prevent this problem, defrost your freezer before ice has a chance to build up inside.
6. Turn Off Electronics When They’re Not in Use
Computers, mobile phones, tablets and other electronics use energy whenever they’re turned on. You may not want to turn off your mobile phone at night, but there’s no reason you can’t turn off your computer or tablet when you’re not using it.
Alternatively, you can put your computer in sleep mode, which uses less energy than leaving it on all night. Computers “wake up” quickly, so sleep mode allows you to reduce energy usage without waiting for your computer to boot up in the morning.
7. Use Appliances During Off-Peak Hours
Energy companies typically charge less for energy used during off-peak hours. For example, your utility provider may offer a lower rate for energy consumed late at night or early in the morning. To save money, use your appliances during these hours whenever possible. If your energy rate is lower between 9 p.m. and 6 p.m., throw in a load of laundry right at 9 p.m. You should have enough time to dry it before you go to bed.
8. Keep Your Fridge and Freezer Stocked
Every time you open your fridge or freezer door, air escapes. If either unit is nearly empty, there isn’t anything to minimize the amount of cold air lost. In contrast, a stockpile of foods and beverages can block cold air from escaping, reducing the amount of energy needed to maintain a steady and consistent temperature.
9. Follow Manufacturer Recommendations
Every appliance comes with an owner’s manual filled with tips on installing and using the item correctly. In many cases, the manual includes recommendations for maximizing energy efficiency and reducing utility costs. For example, the manual for your refrigerator probably has a recommended temperature setting to keep food cold without wasting energy. If you’re concerned about energy efficiency, it’s important to reduce these recommendations.
10. Install Heat-Producing Appliances Correctly
Some appliances, such as ovens and dishwashers, produce heat when you use them. If you want to reduce energy usage, make sure you install these appliances as far from your thermostat as possible. When a heat-producing appliance sits near a thermostat, the thermostat thinks it’s warmer in the house than it really is. As a result, your cooling system kicks on more often, causing it to use an excessive amount of energy.
11. Use a Programmable Thermostat
Old-fashioned thermostats require manual adjustment, so they’re not as efficient as they should be. If you forget to turn down the thermostat before you leave for work, for example, your furnace or air conditioner will run all day, using energy to heat or cool an empty house. Programmable thermostats allow you to create custom heating and cooling schedules, reducing the amount of energy used to keep your home comfortable.
You might also be interested in: The Benefits of Geothermal Heat Pumps for Your Home
