Sometimes it can feel a bit overwhelming to know you need to change things to be more energy efficient. Especially if you don’t know where to start. Luckily, we have a list of some of the ways we like to lower our energy usage and want to share it with you. These simple fixes are great ideas to start implementing into your home today.
The Laundry
1) Wash clothing in cold water
When doing laundry, most of the energy goes to heating the water. Besides, most of the detergents are made to work better in cold water.
2) Run full loads of wash
When you’re doing laundry, make sure to get in a full load. By cutting down on the number you do per week, it will significantly lower your energy usage.
3) Extra spin in the washer
Giving your clothes an extra spin when washing it can cut some of the time it takes your clothes to dry.
4) Clean your dryer
After every load, clean out the lint trap in your dryer. And regularly maintain your dryer vents to help keep your dryer in peak working performance.
5) Wool balls in the dryer
By adding a wool ball or dry towel into your dryer, you can help speed up the dry time. And by adding the wool ball, you won’t need to add the fabric softener.
6) Air dry clothing
An easy way to lower your energy use is to simply not run your dryer. While it may not be possible to air dry all of your clothing, even doing some of them will help make a difference.
The Water
7) Switch to low flow showerhead and faucets
To help dramatically reduce your water usage, you should install water-efficient showerheads and faucets. Be sure to look for appliances with the certified WaterSense Label.
8) Turn the hot water heater down
Turn your water heater down to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll save costs on not needing to get the water so hot while it still being plenty warm for hot water needs.
9) Turn off the water
When you’re shaving, washing your hands, and brushing your teeth you should turn off the water. It’ll save on both hot water costs and your water usage.
The Kitchen
10) Air-dry your dishes
A simple way to reduce your energy usage is to skip the heat-dry setting on your dishwasher. Rather, open the door just a crack and let the dishes air-dry.
11) Use the dishwasher
Rather than wash dishes by hand, fill up the dishwasher. You’ll use less water this way. But make sure to have a full load when you run it.
12) Plug up the sink
When you have to wash dishes by hand, be sure to plug up the sink or use a washbasin to limit the amount of water you’re using.
13) Keep your oven door closed
When you’re baking, stick to looking through the window to check on your bake. Every time you open the door, you’re losing precious heat and energy.
14) Use smaller appliances
If it’s possible, use a smaller appliance, like the microwave or toaster oven. You’ll get your food quicker while also lowering energy costs.
15) Adjust your fridge and freezer temperature
Set your fridge to 38 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep your food fresh and your energy bill lower.
16) Skip the one time use dishware
Rather than pulling out the paper plates and plastic utensils, use the reusable items and run a load of dishes in the dishwasher.
The Thermostat
17) Lower the thermostat
At night, lower your thermostat by a few degrees to help lower energy costs. You should also do this when you’re not at home during the day and when on vacation.
18) Get a programable thermostat
To help regulate the temperature in the house, you can get a programable thermostat. This way you can easily set the house to a lower temperature while your sleeping or out of the house.
19) Check your thermostat location
Depending on where the thermostat is placed it can be impossible to properly heat or cool your home. Make sure it is in a central location that will reflect the correct temperature throughout your space.
The Lighting
20) Change the light bulbs
Switch to LED bulbs. Which will not only lower your energy footprint, but you won’t have to change them nearly as often.
22) Hit the lights
When you’re leaving a room, be sure to turn off the lights to help lower your energy costs by not using unnecessary electricity.
23) Use motion sensors
Consider installing motion sensor lighting that turns the lights when there isn’t anyone in the room.
24) Use natural light
A great way to use natural resources is to use natural light to lighten up your room. Though try opening blinds opposite the sun to avoid the extra heat in your home.
25) Use task lighting
Rather than turn on an overhead light, try a smaller light for the task at hand. Plus, it’ll give you more direct light for what you need.
The Devices
26) Stream movies through smart TV
Streaming through the smart TV, rather than through consoles, will help lower extra energy used from multiple devices.
27) Choose a laptop
When you’re picking out your next computer, consider getting a laptop rather than a desktop. Laptops use less energy to charge and use.
28) Look for energy star products
When you’re buying new items for the house, like appliances, lighting, or electronics, look for the Energy Star products. These are certified to be more energy efficient.
29) Unplug your devices
When you aren’t using your devices, unplug them. Or flip the switch on your power strip. Even when devices aren’t in use, they’re still using energy.
The Rest of the Home
30) Window coverings
During the summer months, close your blinds to keep the sun from pounding in your windows and ultimately keep your place cooler.
31) Use a fan
If it’s possible, put a fan in every room of your house. The circulating air will make the room feel cooler while using less energy than your air conditioning.
32) Keep home sealed tight
Apply some weather stripping around your doors and plastic over your drafty windows in the winter. You can even put insulation pads inside electrical outlets and spray foam around windows. All of which will help keep drafts from entering your home.
33) Do chores at night
The power company can charge more during peak usage times, which makes it less cost-effective to run your appliances during the day. Choose to run your dishwasher, washer, and dryer later at night.
34) Get a plant or two (or three)
Buying a houseplant is a great way to purify the air in your home while also helping to spruce up your place.
This is by no means a complete list of all the things you can do to lower your energy usage. But be sure to let us know in the comments what your favorite things to do to lower your energy costs.
If you’re looking to move to Seattle, or if you’re looking for a new place to live, find your next dream apartment here. And while on your search for the best apartments, be sure to check out our post on some of the reasons you should live in Seattle.