Top 5 Ways to Reduce your Energy Usage Without Leaving your Home

Being home means you'll likely be using your appliances more than usual. Use these tips to reduce your energy usage and share with a friend!

Lower your thermostat

If possible, set your thermostat to no warmer than 68°F. The U.S. Department of Energy says you could save about 1% on energy usage for every degree you lower your thermostat over an eight-hour period. Even 70 instead of 72 can make a difference. 

When cooking, smaller is better

When it comes to appliances and cookware, you want to try and go small. So that means toaster ovens and microwaves instead of the oven and stove. If you have ceramic or glass pans, use those because they retain heat better than metal ones. And with longer days, perhaps consider grilling occasionally. It consumes almost no energy and is a great way to bring the family together.

When doing laundry, bigger is better

You’ll want to run fewer, larger loads rather than more, smaller loads. Whenever possible, don’t let the dryer cool down. Do back to back loads in the dryer to take advantage of the heat buildup and use the dryer’s moisture sensor. No sense having the dryer run after the clothes are dry. And be sure to clean the lint tray after each drying cycle.

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Be fridge friendly

Be decisive when getting something out of the fridge. Opening the fridge or freezer door over and over and keeping the door open while looking for something drives up your fridge’s energy usage. And when storing food, be sure to cover liquids in particular, as moisture inside the refrigerator can require the unit to use more electricity.

When doing dishes, fill 'er up

Because dishwashers require a lot of energy to wash and dry dishes, be sure you wait until the dishwasher is full before running it.  Don’t use the heat dry option. It’s not necessary and requires a lot of extra energy.

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