What’s Your Energy Efficiency IQ?

1. How often should you change your air filter?

• Once every three months.
• Once every six months.
• Once a year.
• Never.

Correct!Incorrect! It is recommended that you change your air filter at least once every three months. During heavy-use seasons such as summer or winter, it is worth checking every month. A dirty air filter will slow your home's cooling or heating process, leading to an inefficient system and a high energy bill.

2. Which is an energy-efficient DIY home improvement you can make to your bathroom?

• Install a dual-flush toilet.
• Install a low-flow shower head.
• Install an electric air hand dryer.
• Install a radiant floor heating system.

Correct!Incorrect! A low-flow shower head can save more than 2,700 gallons each year for the average family. This means less demand on your water heater and your wallet.

3. Household laundry can be a strain on your time and your wallet, especially if you have a larger family. Which is one way that you can save energy while doing laundry during these warmer months?

• Run your dryer on high, even for smaller loads.
• Use the hottest water temperature setting on your washer.
• Pre-soak your laundry load before washing it.
• Air dry your laundry when you can.

Correct!Incorrect! Air drying, rather than using your dryer, can be a big energy saver, plus it can also protect some fabrics from shrinking and ripping.

4. A high score on a new video game could mean a higher energy bill. Which is not an energy-efficient option for your gaming console that could help you save the day - and save on your energy bill?

• Activate power-saving options on select game consoles.
• Use your game console to stream your favorite movies and TV shows.
• Unplug your game consoles when they're not in use.
• Make sure your game consoles are up to date with the most recent software.

Correct!Incorrect! Avoid binge-watching your favorite movies and TV shows on your video game console. Digital media players installed directly through your TV (Roku, Apple TV, etc.) use 15 times less energy than game consoles.

5. Which is not an energy efficiency benefit when using ENERGY STAR^®-certified room air conditioners?

• ENERGY STAR®-certified room air conditioners use 15-26% less energy than standard models.
• Cooling periods can be scheduled based on your needs.
• They have remote control access.
• They can cool multiple rooms at a time.

Correct!Incorrect! ENERGY STAR^®-certified room air conditioners are the perfect way to beat the heat while not sweating your wallet; they are a great way to cool small spaces.

6. Finding new ways to improve your kitchen’s energy efficiency can be the recipe for significant savings. Which technique can save you time and energy?

• Use the microwave or air fryer when cooking instead of the oven.
• Constantly check the food temperature by opening the oven door.
• Leave the oven light on for the entire cooking time.
• Leave pots uncovered while cooking.

Correct!Incorrect! When cooking larger meals, use smaller, less energy-intensive appliances like a microwave or air fryer to reduce energy. Smaller appliances do not emit as much residual heat, equating to a cooler kitchen during the warmer months.