The average household spends about $1,900 a year in energy costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, and much of that is wasted. Although it's easy to point fingers, the truth is that most people have energy-wasting habits. Take these actions today to give your energy budget a helping hand.
Change a lightbulb. LEDs use about 75% less energy than conventional incandescent bulbs, and they last a lot longer. Replace incandescent bulbs in your home with ENERGY STAR®-certified LEDs.
Flip the switch. Even high-efficiency bulbs waste energy lighting empty rooms. Turn the lights off when you're the last one to leave.
Touch that dial. Adjusting your thermostat is the easiest and most cost-effective way to reduce energy use. Raise or lower temperatures at night or when no one is at home to save energy. Wi-Fi-enabled smart thermostats provide advanced features, such as remote control and self-programming.
Hang your clothes out to dry. Use racks to dry clothes whenever possible. You'll save on energy costs and reduce wear and tear on clothes, helping them last longer.
Pull the plug. Don't let unused electronics waste energy. Unplug devices when you're not using them or plug them into an advanced power strip, which automatically shuts off power to unused devices.
Close the door. Leaving the fridge door open while you're weighing your snack options can let a lot of cold air escape. Open and close the door quickly to reduce energy waste.
Reach for the star. Home appliances are key to a comfortable lifestyle, but they use a lot of energy. Make sure your appliances are ENERGY STAR®-certified. Energy-efficient appliances cost less to operate while still providing the same level of performance.
If you're willing get your hands a little dirty, here are some simple DIY projects that can save you even more. Look for gaps around doors and windows and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. Insulate accessible hot water pipes near your water heater tank. All it takes is a little time and a trip to your local home improvement retailer.
So there you have it. With a simple hands-on approach, lower energy bills are within your grasp.