Today’s globe is increasingly concerned about how much electricity is consumed, both for the financial and environmental costs it imposes on people. The good news is that there are several easy techniques to save electricity at home that can not only lower energy costs but also contribute to resource preservation. This post will go over 100 useful suggestions for reducing your home’s energy consumption and electricity use. This guide contains something for everyone trying to cut their electricity consumption, from basic habits like turning off the lights when you leave a room to more involved initiatives like switching to energy-efficient appliances.
Electricity Saving Tips at Home
Some electricity-saving tactics are:
1. Turn off lights when leaving a room
Your energy usage can be decreased, and your monthly electricity cost can be decreased, by taking simple steps like turning off the lights while leaving a room.
2. Use energy-efficient LED light bulbs
LED light bulbs last a lot longer and can consume up to 80% less energy than conventional incandescent lights. You can save up to $75 for one LED by swapping out only one incandescent bulb.
3. Unplug electronics when they’re not in use
Even when they are not in use, many appliances and electronics continue to use energy. You can conserve a sizable amount of electricity by disconnecting these devices when not in use.
4. Use a power strip to control multiple devices
You can simply manage the simultaneous power usage of several devices using power strips. When not in use, just plug all of your equipment into a power strip and turn it off.
5. Use natural light instead of artificial light
Natural light is a cost-free source of illumination that can considerably lower your energy usage. You may lessen the need for artificial lighting and conserve energy by keeping your curtains and blinds open during the day.
6. Use a clothesline to dry clothes instead of a dryer
Instead of using a dryer, hang your clothes outside to dry. While a dryer consumes electricity to heat the air and tumble the clothes, a clothesline uses no energy at all. Additionally, hanging garments outside to dry naturally can help keep them in good shape and color while minimizing the need for ironing.
7. Use a programmable thermostat to control your heating and cooling
Based on your schedule and consumption patterns, programmable thermostats are intended to automatically regulate the temperature in your home. You may lower your energy use and lower your monthly electricity costs by installing a smart thermostat.
8. Replace old appliances with Energy Star-rated appliances
Energy-efficient appliances consume less energy and can help you cut your monthly electricity costs. When shopping for appliances, search for ENERGY STAR-certified models, which show that they adhere to energy-efficiency standards.
9. Install solar panels
Solar panels produce clean, renewable energy, which can drastically lower your monthly electricity costs. Even though installing solar panels can be expensive up front, there may be significant savings over time.
10. Use a microwave instead of a stove for small cooking tasks
Because they use less energy and heat food more quickly than stoves, microwaves are significantly more energy-efficient than stoves. Microwaves are a more energy-efficient option for quick culinary jobs since they require less energy to cook smaller quantities of food. Additionally, whereas a microwave doesn’t require preheating, stoves and ovens frequently require it before cooking, which consumes more energy and time. Therefore, it may be more energy efficient to use a microwave than a stove for brief culinary operations.
11. Use a laptop instead of a desktop computer
The prevailing consensus is that laptops use less energy than desktop PCs. In comparison to desktop computers, laptops use less power and produce less heat since they have smaller components and are built to be energy-efficient. In addition, laptops frequently include built-in batteries that enable them to operate on battery power, which is more effective than relying on a desktop’s power source.
12. Use solar-powered outdoor lights
Solar-powered outdoor lighting uses the sun’s energy rather than the grid’s electricity to provide light, which lowers energy demand and helps save energy.
13. Use a rechargeable battery instead of disposable batteries
Compared to disposable batteries, rechargeable batteries are more economical and environmentally beneficial. Because they can be recharged and used often, less waste and new batteries are needed, which saves energy.
14. Insulate your home
Insulating your house can help you use less energy while maintaining year-round comfort in your home. Proper insulation expenditures can also lower your recurring energy costs and raise the value of your house.
15. Reduce water heater temperature
To heat water, water heaters need a lot of energy. Your water heater’s temperature can be lowered to conserve energy and lower your recurring monthly electric cost.
16. Upgrade your windows
Energy loss from windows that are old and drafty might be significant. To use less energy to heat and cool your home, think about installing weather stripping or updating to energy-efficient windows.
17. Use ceiling fans
Air circulation assisted by ceiling fans can lessen the need for air conditioning. You may lower the energy use of your air conditioning system by employing ceiling fans in conjunction with it.
18. Wash clothes in cold water
The heating of the water during the washing process consumes the majority of the energy. You may lower the energy use of your washing machine by washing your clothes in cold water.
19. Use a dishwasher efficiently
Dishwashers use a lot of energy to heat water and run their cleaning cycle. To reduce energy consumption, only run the dishwasher when it is full and use the energy-saving setting.
20. Adjust your refrigerator temperature
Refrigerators use a lot of energy to keep food cold. By adjusting the temperature of your refrigerator to between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit, you can reduce energy consumption and save money on your monthly electricity bill.
21. Reduce standby power
Standby power refers to the energy consumed by electronics when they are in standby mode. To reduce standby power, turn off your electronics or use a power strip to control the power consumption of multiple devices at once.
22. Install motion sensors
Motion sensors can be installed in areas of your home where lights are frequently left on such as the garage or basement. By installing motion sensors, you can reduce the amount of energy used to light these areas and lower your monthly electricity bill.
23. Reduce your screen time
Reducing the amount of time you spend on electronic devices can lower your energy consumption and reduce your monthly electricity bill. Try to limit your screen time to only when you need it and turn off your electronics when they’re not in use.
24. Air dry your clothes
Air-drying your clothes instead of using a dryer can reduce energy consumption and lower your monthly electricity bill. Simply hang your clothes on a clothesline or drying rack to air dry.
25. Limit heat from cooking
You can turn your oven off before food is finished cooking, especially in the summer. And in the summer, whatever heat you generate in your oven will eventually bleed into your house, so that exact amount of heat will have to be offset by your air conditioner.
26. Use a solar oven
You can use a solar oven that effectively captures solar radiation in a confined, insulated space to heat just like a conventional oven but with no energy cost and no pollution.
27. Use an ice dispenser in your refrigerator
Use your ice dispenser, if you have one. You won’t have to open your door and let in the warm air which then needs to be cooled, costing extra energy.
28. Turn the temperatures up on your existing freezer/refrigerator.
Experiment to see how it works. It makes a big difference in cost but not much in terms of food quality.
29. Get an upright vacuum cleaner
Central vacuums waste tons of energy and they move far more air than an exhaust fan. Get an upright vacuum cleaner to save electricity.
30. Use solar hot water
Whether you’re heating water in the sun, using solar systems to supplement your domestic water heater or just trying to cut down on how much energy your water heater uses, you can easily reduce your hot water needs without kicking anyone out of the house.
31. Use dehumidifiers in hot climates
Dehumidifiers make a room feel better on your skin, so you can turn the temperature up while retaining the same comfort level.
32. Install low bushes
Swimming pools lose a lot of heat from the wind. If you simply install some low bushes on the windward side, your yard will be prettier and you’ll use less energy heating your pool. If you don’t heat your pool, it’ll stay warmer and your season will be longer. You can even get drought-resistant bushes that you don’t even have to water.
33. Switch to gas for cooking
Use gas for cooking to save electricity. Gas is more efficient than electricity and you have the bonus of still being able to cook during power outages.
34. Cover up your geyser
Fit your geyser with a geyser blanket. It prevents heat loss, reducing the cost of electricity needed to keep water hot.
35. Wrap the hot water pipes
Insulate your hot water pipes. This prevents heat loss, reducing the cost of electricity needed to keep water hot.
36. Change your showerheads
Install an energy and water-efficient showerhead. These use up to 40% less hot water and will save you money on your electricity bill.
37. Light up
Light a fire instead of using electric heating. Fireplaces retain heat and warm spaces effectively, keeping your cost down and the warmth up.
38. Use smart meters
Smart meters can be used with home energy management systems such as Web-based tools that your utility provides or devices that can be installed in your home. Smart meters can display your home energy use, help you find ways to save energy and money and even allow you to remotely adjust your thermostat or turn appliances off.
39. Clean the filters
Clean or replace filters on furnaces and air conditioners once a month or as recommended. It will reduce your energy cost.
40. Keep shades open in winter
During winter, keep the draperies and shades on your south-facing windows open during the day to allow the sunlight to enter your home and closed at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.
41. Landscaping
Landscaping is a natural and beautiful way to keep your home cool in summer and reduce your energy bills. A well-placed tree, shrub or vine can deliver effective shade, act as a windbreak and reduce your energy bills.
42. Green roofs
You may also consider installing a green roof. Green roofs are ideal for urban buildings with flat or shallow-pit roofs and can include anything from basic plant cover to a garden. The primary reasons for using this type of roof include managing stormwater and enjoying a rooftop open space. Green roofs also provide insulation, lower the need for heating and cooling and can reduce the urban heat island effect.
43. Use dimmers and timers
Controls such as timers and photocells save electricity by turning lights off when not in use. Dimmers save electricity when used to lower light levels. Be sure to select products that are compatible with the energy-efficient bulbs you want to use.
44. Air-dry your dishes
Let your dishes air dry; if you don’t have an automatic air-dry switch, turn off the control knob after the final rinse and prop the door open slightly so the dishes will dry faster.
45. Don’t keep your refrigerator or freezer too cold
Don’t keep your refrigerator or freezer too cold. Recommended temperatures are 35˚-38˚F for refrigerators and 0˚F for separate freezers for long-term storage.
46. Take showers instead of baths
A five-minute shower takes a third of the water of a bath. If you want to spend half an hour soaking, a bath is better but most people simply want to clean off.
47. Use a covered kettle
Boiling water using a covered kettle or pan or electric kettle is faster than using an uncovered kettle or pan and also uses less energy. This is because a covered kettle or pan helps to retain the heat and steam which in turn speeds up the boiling process and reduces the energy needed to bring the water to boiling point.
48. Use small appliances
Use small electric pans, toaster ovens or convection ovens for small meals rather than your large stove or oven. A toaster or convection oven uses one-third to one-half as much energy as a full-sized oven.
49. Install a wind turbine
Installing small wind turbines which range in size from 400 W to 20 kW, can provide some of the electricity for your home. Other uses of micro wind turbines (20-500 W) include charging batteries for sailboats and other recreational vehicles.
50. Maintainance
Regular maintenance of appliances and heating and cooling systems helps them to run more efficiently which can result in lower energy consumption and long-term energy savings. This can include cleaning filters, replacing worn parts and ensuring proper calibration. By performing these tasks regularly, you can also prevent breakdowns and prolong the lifespan of your appliances and systems.
51. Place the refrigerator carefully
Refrigerators should be placed in the coolest place in the kitchen to save energy. This is because if the refrigerator is located in a warm area, it will have to work harder to maintain the proper temperature which will result in increased energy usage. Placing the refrigerator near an outer wall can help reduce the amount of heat that it is exposed to which will also help to reduce energy usage. It is also important to avoid placing the refrigerator next to the stove because the stove generates a lot of heat and this could cause the refrigerator to work even harder to maintain its temperature.
52. Use portable heaters
Using portable heaters to heat small areas for short periods can help you save money by not using your furnace to heat the entire house but it depends on various factors like the cost of electricity, the size of the room, the type of heater, the cost of operating the furnace, etc.
53. Use an electric blanket
Using an electric mattress pad or blanket is cheaper than heating your entire bedroom. Sometimes it’s enough to just preheat your bed before you get in it.
54. Dress warmer
Dressing warmer when the days get cooler is less expensive and more efficient than turning up your thermostat.
55. Don’t open the oven door
Don’t open the oven door unless necessary. The temperature can drop by as much as 25 degrees F. Opening the oven door can cause the temperature to drop by a significant amount, leading to energy loss and longer cooking times.
56. Use a kettle
Kettles are designed specifically to boil water quickly and efficiently, so they will typically boil water faster than other methods such as using a stove or microwave. Additionally, using a kettle is often more energy-efficient than using other appliances as they are designed to heat water to boiling point and then turn off automatically, reducing the amount of electricity needed.
57. Focus on the light and volume settings of your TV
Lower the contrast and brightness on your set and watch TV in low light. Check the volume. The higher the volume, the higher the electricity usage.
58. Time-based electricity
Rates to help reduce their peak power demands and save money, many utilities are introducing programs that encourage their customers to use electricity during off-peak hours. The programs pass on the savings to you, the customer, through rebates or reduced electricity rates.
59. Focus on your mobile devices
Reduce screen brightness or use auto-brightness on your mobile devices. Turn off the vibrate function when not in use. Turn off push email and background app refresh. Avoid using heavy power-consuming apps such as gaming or video streaming, for extended periods. Use original charging equipment and avoid overcharging.
60. Use a surge protector
Use a surge protector to avoid energy spikes which can shorten the lifespan of your TV.
61. Avoid leaving your TV on overnight
It’s a good habit to turn off the TV when you go to bed. When you leave your TV on overnight, it continues to use electricity even when you’re not watching it, leading to higher energy bills. By turning off your TV when you’re done watching it, you can save money on your electricity bills.
62. Use a solar-powered radio
Consider using a solar-powered radio to reduce your carbon footprint and save on electricity costs. Use a low-wattage radio that consumes less electricity.
63. Check the door seals of your refrigerator
Make sure the door seals are tight and in good condition as this helps to prevent cold air from escaping. Don’t leave the refrigerator door open for extended periods as this increases the amount of energy needed to keep the temperature stable.
65. Use smart plugs
Smart plugs can be connected to a home network or smartphone app, allowing you to control and monitor the power usage of any device that is plugged into it, even if the device is not smart or connected to the internet. This way, you can turn devices on and off, set schedules and timers and track energy consumption, making it easier to manage your home’s energy usage.
66. Keep devices up-to-date
Updating the software on smart devices can improve energy efficiency by fixing bugs and optimizing the device’s performance. This can result in improved battery life and reduced power consumption.
67. Use voice control
Using voice control instead of manual controls can reduce the amount of time a device is turned on and in use.
68. Clean your computer
Regularly clean the computer of dust which can impede cooling and reduce efficiency.
69. Use the coffee machine efficiently
Use the correct power setting for the amount of coffee you are brewing. Clean the machine regularly to maintain its efficiency. Only boil the amount of water you need and place the machine on a flat surface to prevent it from overheating.
70. Teach your kids
By teaching kids about energy efficiency and how to conserve energy, they can help reduce energy consumption and contribute to a more sustainable future. For example, children can be taught about turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using natural light instead of artificial light, taking shorter showers and using energy-efficient appliances. This knowledge and awareness can lead to lifelong habits that can have a significant impact on energy consumption.
71. Have a professional energy inspection
A professional energy inspection can help improve energy efficiency by identifying areas where energy is being wasted as well as highlighting any potential issues with the building’s insulation, ventilation and other systems. A professional inspector will be able to recommend changes that can help reduce energy usage and lower energy bills. These improvements may also make the building more comfortable for occupants which can improve the overall quality of life.
72. Use a reading lamp
By using a specific lamp for reading, you can control the amount of light needed in that specific area, reducing the need to light up the entire room. This way, you can save energy by using only the light necessary for the task, thus reducing your energy consumption and promoting energy conservation.
73. Install ductless heat pumps
Ductless heat pumps use a fraction of the energy required by traditional heating systems, making them a highly efficient alternative. They are also very versatile, making them an ideal choice for a variety of heating and cooling applications. Additionally, because they do not require ductwork, they are much easier to install and maintain than traditional heating systems, making them a great choice for homeowners looking to save money on their energy bills.
74. Paint your house with a lighter color in hot climates
Painting a house with a lighter color can reflect more sunlight and help to reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the building, leading to a reduction in energy consumption for cooling. This can result in energy savings and lower utility bills. On the other hand, dark-colored paint will absorb more heat and cause higher energy consumption.
75. Prefer energy-efficient doors
Energy-efficient doors help reduce energy loss and can help reduce heating and cooling costs. They are designed with features such as high-insulation materials, weather-stripping and tight-fitting seals to prevent air infiltration. By using these doors, homes and buildings can become more energy efficient and can save on energy costs in the long run.
76. Use multiple switches
Using multiple switches to control different lighting circuits in a room or a building can indeed increase energy savings as it allows for more precise control over lighting use. For example, if only one section of a room is being used, it is possible to turn off the lights in the other sections, reducing energy waste.
77. Arrange your furniture
The placement of furniture can affect energy consumption in several ways. For instance, the location of furniture can affect the natural light that enters a room which can increase or decrease energy consumption from lighting. Additionally, if furniture blocks heating or cooling vents, it can increase energy consumption for heating and cooling.
78. Use short cycles
Use the shortest cycle possible for the type of clothes you are washing in your washing machine.
79. Clean the washing machine regularly
A dirty washing machine uses more energy and also shortens its lifespan.
80. Use the iron wisely
Use the lowest temperature setting that will still effectively iron the clothes and unplug the iron after use and allow it to cool down before storing. Iron multiple items in one go, rather than ironing each garment individually.
81. Pre-chop ingredients
Cutting food into smaller pieces before blending will help the blender work more efficiently.
82. Use cold ingredients
Using cold ingredients will reduce the amount of energy the blender needs to use to blend the food.
83. Use a non-stick waffle iron
Use a non-stick waffle iron to reduce energy consumption as it requires less oil or butter to prevent sticking. Preheat the waffle iron for a few minutes before using it, so that it can cook the waffles evenly and quickly.
84. Try manual juicers
Use manual juicers instead of electric juicers as manual juicers consume less energy. Avoid juicing frequently as the more you use your juicer, the more energy it consumes.
85. Use the right speed for the electric mixers
The faster you mix, the more energy you consume, so only use the speed you need for each task. Overmixing causes the mixer to work harder and consume more energy, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
88. Prefer a built-in coolant system for meat grinders
Use a meat grinder that has a built-in coolant system to prevent overheating and increase energy efficiency. Choose a meat grinder with adjustable speed settings, allowing you to control energy consumption.
89. Use the right amount of oil for fryers
Overfilling the fryer with oil increases energy consumption and also decreases the quality of the food. Make sure to use the right amount of oil and keep it at the recommended temperature
90. Limit the preheating time of the fryer
Preheat the fryer only for the amount of time required as longer preheating times consume more energy.
91. Use a lid for a rice cooker
Use a lid to keep the heat in. A lid will help the rice cooker retain heat and reduce the amount of energy needed to cook the rice. Fill the rice cooker to the maximum recommended level. Cooking more rice at once can reduce the number of cooking cycles, thus saving energy.
92. Browing control setting
Use a toaster with a high “browning control” setting which allows you to control the level of toasting and reduce energy consumption.
93. Use energy-saving attic door insulation
An energy-saving attic door insulation helps to reduce heat loss in the winter and keeps the attic space cooler in the summer. This can lead to lower energy bills, improved comfort and reduced stress on heating and cooling systems. Additionally, it can also reduce unwanted noise, dust and allergens from entering the living space.
94. Use solar-powered chargers
Solar-powered chargers are particularly useful for outdoor activities, camping trips and for people who are always on the go and need a way to charge their devices without access to electrical outlets. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly and save energy by harnessing solar power.
95. Prefer solar-powered security systems
A solar-powered security system can be useful in certain situations where access to electricity is limited or non-existent such as remote locations or rural areas. Additionally, a solar-powered security system eliminates the need for regular battery replacements and reduces electricity costs.
96. Don’t leave the fridge door open
Don’t leave the fridge door open and try to avoid putting hot or warm food straight into the fridge as this increases the energy required to keep the contents cold.
97. Unplug after charging
Unplug phone chargers/laptop chargers once the appliance is fully charged.
98. Check your radiators and stop heating unused rooms
Turn off radiators in unused rooms to save wasting energy where it is not needed. Also, don’t forget to keep the doors of unused and unheated rooms closed.
99. Buy draught excluders
You can buy draught excluders for your doors and windows or simply make them yourself.
100. Cool hot food
Cool hot food before placing it into your fridge or freezer as they have to work extra hard to chill it.
By implementing these tips, you can save electricity, reduce your carbon footprint and lower your monthly electricity bill. Remember, every small action you take can add up to make a big impact on the environment.
