Electronics
Avoid using screen savers on your computers. They cause monitors to consume the same amount of power as when they are running normally.
Lighting
Keep shades, light covers and bulbs clean to get the most out of your lights.
Appliances
Clean the lint trap after each dryer load and check the outside vent regularly for maximum efficiency.
Appliances
Don’t place your fridge or freezer where the temperature is high, such as a sunny area or close to the stove or dishwasher. It will have to work harder and use more electricity to stay cold.
Appliances
Allow hot foods to cool before placing them in the fridge or freezer. Adding hot foods will make your appliance work harder and use more electricity to cool the space.
Appliances
Match the stove burner to the size of your pot and use a lid to conserve heat.
Appliances
Unplug appliances when you can; i.e. a single-cup coffee maker is like a small hot water tank. When plugged in all the time, it can contribute up to $10 a month to your electricity bill.
Appliances
Always keep your appliances well maintained for highest efficiency.
Appliances
Fill the dryer before use, but don't overfill as that can lengthen drying time.
Lighting
For work that needs good light, install task lighting close to the job.
Appliances
Wait until there’s a full load before running the dishwasher, and use the air-dry cycle.
Lighting
Not using a light? Switch it off.
Appliances
If you use your dryer, throw a dry towel in with the load to speed up drying time.
Appliances
Arrange food to allow for air to flow throughout your fridge.
Appliances
Hold off on running the washer until you have a full load of laundry.
Appliances
Consider getting rid of your second fridge or freezer. An older fridge could be costing you up to $100 in electricity each year.
Electronics
Turn on your TV’s power-saving mode. Most new TVs have one that can be activated by the user.
Appliances
Only buy what you need and will use – think twice about that wine chiller or lava lamp.
Lighting
Use low-energy night lights.
Lighting
Install timers and motion sensors on outside lighting and Christmas lights.
Electronics
Purchase an ENERGY STAR® certified TV. ENERGY STAR® TVs reduce the amount of standby power while in off mode and use up to 40 percent less energy when on.
