No-Cost and Low-Cost Efficiency Tips
It's cheaper to save energy than to make energy.
No Cost Tips
- Turn water heater down to 120°F (49°C)
- Clean refrigerator coils
- Switch refrigerator to power miser setting
- Set refrigerator temperature to 36-39°F (2-3°C)
- Set freezer to 0-5°F (-18 to -15°C)
- Keep refrigerator/freezer full (Fill empty areas with bottles/jugs of tap water)
- Turn off water while shaving and brushing teeth
- Wash clothes in cold water and wash full loads
- Collect rainwater
- Use the right sized pot/pan on the stove burner
- Do not preheat your oven except for baking
- Cover pots/pans when cooking
- Drain some water from your water heater to remove sediment
Winter Tips
- Turn thermostat down 10°F (5.5°C) at night
- Keep curtains open on the south side of the house during the day
- Keep curtains closed on north windows
- Dress in layers of clothing
Summer Tips
- Close curtains on the sunny sides of home
- Turn off furnace pilot light
- Open windows on the cool sides of home
- Wear loose, light-colored clothing
- Use fans to circulate air in the home
Low-Cost Tips
- Install low-flow shower heads and aerators on faucets
- Insulate water heater
- Insulate electrical outlets and switches
- Caulk on the inside of doors and windows
- Insulate/caulk all pipe penetrations in walls and ceiling
- Install a bleed line on the evaporative cooler and run the line to a tree
- Replace furnace filter every month in winter
- Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs
- Insulate the bottom and sides of waterbeds
- Use a quilt or comforter on waterbeds
- Purchase a water saving toilet or use toilet dams
- Make a draft dodger for use on doors or windows
