Home Energy Use: Do's and Don'ts

Learn about some of the best ways to save energy in your home, as well as some common energy-wasting mistakes to avoid.

Are you looking to reduce your energy bills? To optimize efficiency, it's important to know the best ways to save energy and be aware of some common energy-wasting mistakes to avoid. Follow these do's and don'ts when using energy around your home.

DO:

✅ Install a smart thermostat. Smart, programmable thermostats automatically adjust the temperature of your home based on your schedule, optimizing savings and comfort. They also offer advanced features, such as remote control.

✅ Look for the ENERGY STAR® label. When purchasing new energy-using appliances and equipment, make sure they're ENERGY STAR-certified. ENERGY STAR products are independently tested to meet strict energy efficiency and performance requirements.

✅ Seal air leaks. Air leaks in windows, exterior doors and other areas make your heating and cooling systems work harder to keep you comfortable. Check for leaks and fix them with caulk or weatherstripping. For more information, see Air Sealing Your Home from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

✅ Install water-efficient fixtures. WaterSense®-labeled low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators use less water while still providing a comfortable flow.

✅ Upgrade heating and cooling. If your heating or cooling system is older or in need of repair, consider upgrading to an air-source heat pump. Heat pumps provide highly efficient heating and cooling for year-round comfort in one unit.

✅ Get a home energy audit. An energy professional will inspect your home and provide you with a customized set of energy-saving recommendations.

DON'T:

❌ Neglect your thermostat. That smart thermostat isn't going to save you any money unless you use set it up for success. Program your thermostat for comfort and savings according to the owner's manual or user's instructions.

❌ Leave unused devices running. Lamps lighting empty rooms. TVs entertaining no one. These are common forms of energy waste. Turn things off when you're done using them.

❌ Run partial loads. To optimize energy and water use, wait until you have a full load before operating your dishwasher or clothes washer.

❌ Cook carelessly. Cover pots and pans to cook foods more quickly and reduce energy use, and make sure to match the size of the pot or pan to the size of the burner.

❌ Forget to change your air filter. A clogged HVAC air filter restricts airflow and reduces system efficiency. Change your filter regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

❌ Take long showers. A long, hot shower may feel good, but it sends a lot of water, energy and money down the drain. Keep it to 10 minutes or less.

Now you know what you should and shouldn't be doing to optimize home energy and get the most for your energy dollars.

See the wide variety of energy efficiency programs offered to you by Appalachian Power at TakeChargeWV.com.