3 Little Ways to Save Big on Energy Costs

With so many smart appliances and green home upgrades available to choose from, staying energy efficient today is far from a daunting goal—and even for homeowners who may not have the time or budget to dedicate to a large-scale upgrade or installation, conserving energy doesn’t have to be labor intensive or costly. Keeping these three easy and effective energy-saving tips in mind will help you cut back on your bills and do the planet a favor.

1. Power Down

Save energy at home by remembering to unplug when you’re not using an appliance or electronic device. There’s no need to leave your TV or computer plugged in overnight or to leave often-unused appliances, such as those in guest bedrooms, plugged in when no one will use them most of the time.

2. Dial Back

Keep your appliances turned to settings that use the smallest amount of energy or resources. Set your water heater to 120 degrees or lower and your washing machine to a cold cycle setting. You may also want to set your thermostat to a low temperature while you’re sleeping or at work; purchasing a smart thermostat can also help you conserve energy and save money on your heating bill.

3. Don’t Overflow

Of course, the best way to save water is to use less of it. Cut down on the amount of time you spend in the shower, try not to run the faucet while brushing your teeth or removing food from the dishes prior to washing, and only use the dishwasher and washing machine for full loads.

There’s no denying that making upgrades for a greener home is an environmentally friendly and cost-effective decision in the long run, but it’s just as important to develop easy-to-maintain habits that will help you become a more frugal and earth-conscious homeowner.