Today is Energy Efficiency Day, a nationwide event that celebrates the many benefits of energy efficiency, from saving money on energy bills to reducing pollution and creating jobs. If you're looking for ways to cut costs and make a positive impact on the environment, energy efficiency is a great place to start.
Below, energyefficiencyday.org compiled 10 simple strategies to reduce energy waste at home and at work.
Make the switch to LED:
LED lights use up to 90% less electricity and last at least 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs. Replace five of your most-used bulbs with ENERGY STAR® certified LEDs to save about $75 per year.
Seal those leaks:
Prevent drafts by sealing leaks around windows, doors, chimneys, and recessed lighting. This can save up to 20% on heating costs.
Heat and cool efficiently:
Use a programmable thermostat to manage your heating and cooling schedules, ensuring you’re not wasting energy on an empty home.
Maintain your HVAC system:
Clean or replace furnace filters regularly and consider an annual HVAC tune-up to ensure optimal performance.
Look for the ENERGY STAR® label:
ENERGY STAR® certified windows, HVAC systems, and appliances offer significant energy savings compared to non-certified options.
Turn off the electronics:
Remember to turn off lights, appliances, and electronics when not in use. A power strip can help you switch off multiple devices at once.
Winter tip: Invite the sun in:
Let sunlight in through south- and west-facing windows during winter days to naturally warm your home and reduce heating costs.
Summer tip: Close blinds and shades:
Keep blinds and shades closed during hot summer days to prevent excess heat from building up indoors.
Clean your clothing efficiently:
Use cold water for laundry and try to run full loads. Air-drying clothes can save even more energy.
Clean up your dishes efficiently:
Skip the “rinse hold” and heated drying cycles when using the dishwasher—air drying is just as effective and much more energy-efficient.
#EEDay2024
Energy efficiency doesn’t require major investments—small, simple changes can lead to substantial savings on your energy bills while also helping the environment.
Whether at home or in the workplace, these energy-saving tips can make a significant difference. To learn more and discover additional strategies, visit energyefficiencyday.org.
