Simple ways to reduce your power at home

Simple ways to reduce your power at home

1. Shutdown your computer at night.

Computers are some of the biggest energy users in homes. Turn your monitor off at night instead of using a screensaver. Shutting down over using a screensaver does not affect your computer's lifespan.

2. Change your lightbulbs.

LED bulbs are the most energy efficient lighting option. They use 75% less electricity than incandescent bulbs. The also have no mercury, and last about 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

3. Eliminate vampire power.

Devices like televisions, microwaves, and printers use standby power, even when off. Some chargers continue to pull small amounts of energy, even when plugged in. Unplug idle electronics before bed to save power.

4. Use a power strip to reduce your plug load.

To avoid paying for this "vampire power," use a power strip to turn all devices off at once. Flipping the switch on your power strip has the same effect as unplugging each socket from the wall, preventing phantom energy loss.

5. Close your curtains before sundown.

Closing your curtains will keep heat in and reduce the need for heaters. But make sure you open them on sunny days to take advantage of natural heating from the sun.

6. Use timers for showers & heaters.

Cutting showers from 15 minutes to 5 minutes each could save a family of four $900 a year. Using timers on heaters will ensure you don't forget to turn them off when you don't need them.

7. Use your washing machine efficiently.

Ensure your washing machine is full before switching them on and wash your clothes in cold water.

1. Shutdown your computer at night.

Computers are some of the biggest energy users in homes. Turn your monitor off at night instead of using a screensaver. Shutting down over using a screensaver does not affect your computer's lifespan.

2. Change your lightbulbs.

LED bulbs are the most energy efficient lighting option. They use 75% less electricity than incandescent bulbs. The also have no mercury, and last about 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

3. Eliminate vampire power.

Devices like televisions, microwaves, and printers use standby power, even when off. Some chargers continue to pull small amounts of energy, even when plugged in. Unplug idle electronics before bed to save power.

4. Use a power strip to reduce your plug load.

To avoid paying for this "vampire power," use a power strip to turn all devices off at once. Flipping the switch on your power strip has the same effect as unplugging each socket from the wall, preventing phantom energy loss.

5. Close your curtains before sundown.

Closing your curtains will keep heat in and reduce the need for heaters. But make sure you open them on sunny days to take advantage of natural heating from the sun.

6. Use timers for showers & heaters.

Cutting showers from 15 minutes to 5 minutes each could save a family of four $900 a year. Using timers on heaters will ensure you don't forget to turn them off when you don't need them.

7. Use your washing machine efficiently.

Ensure your washing machine is full before switching them on and wash your clothes in cold water.