Home Appliance Guide

A/C & Electric Heat

This is the biggest driver by far of your home’s electricity use.

• When it’s hot out, raise your thermostat by 4° to use up to 20% less electricity.
• When it’s cold, lower it by 4° to use up to 20% less.
• Set a reminder to clean or replace your filter every 3 months.

Water Heater

Most people don’t realize that heating water uses lots of energy.

• Lower it to 120°. Going on vacation? Turn it off.
• Take shorter showers – you’ll save water and energy.
• Wash your clothes in cold water to cut your washer’s energy usage in half.

Lighting & Home Media

Some appliances use electricity even when they’re off. Older bulbs use more too.

• Use LED bulbs. They’re 75% more efficient than some other bulbs.
• Plug electronics into a power strip and shut the strip off when it's not in use.
• Take advantage of natural sunlight when you can.

Fridge and Dryer

Efficiency is key – avoid keeping your fridge too cold and your dryer running for too long.

• Set your fridge temp between 35-38° and your freezer at 0° so it’s not too cold.
• Clean the coils on the bottom or back of your fridge monthly.
• Give your dryer a break - hang washed clothes outdoors or lay flat to dry inside.

Ceiling Fan & Stove

A fan doesn’t use much electricity, but it lets you raise the thermostat about 4° without reducing any comfort. Be sure to turn it off when you leave though. Fans cool people, not rooms.

Try grilling more. Cooking outdoors means your stove and oven can sit one out.

Pool & Hot Tub

Use an automatic timer on your pool pump and clear clogs from filters regularly.

Separate Freezer & Fridge

Unplug them if you aren’t using them. The average cost to run a 2^nd fridge is about $70 annually and for a freezer it’s about $60.