Small Steps Lead to Big Energy Savings

These simple, low-cost energy conservation steps can go a long way toward reducing your energy bills and your environmental footprint.

Upgrading appliances and HVAC systems can significantly lower energy costs, but that may be a step too far for many renters and homeowners. Fortunately, there are a variety of smaller, low-cost steps you can take toward lowering your energy bills that won't leave such a heavy trace on your household budget.

Start with small conservation steps

These free energy conservation measures can help you start saving today.

• Turn things off. It's the simplest way to avoid wasting energy. Turn off lights when you're the last to leave a room and turn off powered devices when you're not using them.
• Adjust your thermostat. Adjusting temperatures at night or when you are not at home is one of the most effective ways to lower your energy bill.
• Take shorter showers. Long showers send plenty of hot water down the drain. Keep your showers to 10 minutes or less, and turn off the tap when brushing your teeth.
• Operate fully loaded. Save energy by only running the dishwasher and clothes washer when they are fully loaded.
• Air dry laundry. When doing laundry, why not air dry your clothes? It will save you the cost of running the dryer, and air drying may help keep clothes looking new.
• Cook efficiently. Reduce cooking time by covering pots and pans on the stove. Avoid wasting energy by using the right size burners. Use the microwave to reheat food instead of the stove top; it's quicker and saves energy.

Pick up the pace with simple upgrades

These low-cost upgrades can take you further along the road toward long-term savings.

• Switch to LED lighting. LED lights are up to 75% more efficient than conventional bulbs, and they last much longer, reducing the need to purchase and replace existing bulbs.
• Install a smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats automatically adjust temperatures to optimize savings and comfort based on your schedule. They also provide cool features, such as geofencing and remote control.
• Plug smarter. Many electronic devices continue to draw power, even when you're not using them. Advanced power strips and smart plugs automatically cut power to unused plugged-in devices.
• Go low flow. Water-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators use less water to provide the same comfortable flow.
• Seal air leaks. Install weather-stripping around doors and windows to ensure that they are properly sealed. Check for and seal air leaks in the attic, basement and around plumbing and wiring access points.

With these simple steps, you've come a long way toward a more energy-efficient and comfortable home. Take things further with a home energy assessment. An energy professional will inspect your home and provide you with a customized set of energy-saving recommendations that you can run with.