Washing
This summer, with a few simple steps, you can easily save energy and still keep cool and clean.

  • Lower the thermostat on your water heater to 115°F. You’ll save energy by keeping your water from getting hotter than needed.
  • Shower and run the washing machine during the morning or evening hours to keep indoor humidity from making your home feel warmer.
  • Clean out your dryer’s lint trap before you run it to keep the air flowing freely.
  • Do loads of laundry back to back. Keeping the dryer hot can actually reduce the amount of time and energy it takes to complete the task.
  • Wash your clothes in cold water. Your detergents will work just as well and you’ll save on your energy bill.

Cooking
Why add extra heat to your home? Whip up an amazing meal and still stay cool.

  • Double your recipe and freeze some for later. Reheating uses less energy than cooking and you’ll save time with a pre-made dinner on a busy night.
  • No need to preheat the oven if your food requires an hour or more of cooking time.
  • Use pots and pans that fit your burners to keep heat from escaping.
Cooling
Forty-five percent of the average utility bill is spent on heating and cooling. Luckily, you can change that with these helpful hints.
  • Turn on fans when you’re home during the day to help circulate the cool air from your air conditioner.
  • If needed, defrost your freezer. The ice that builds up over time can cause it to work harder to keep the temperature down.
  • Keep your refrigerator stocked. It takes more energy to cool an empty fridge than a full one.

Electric
Computers, printers, televisions and lights can consume energy and generate heat but with some small changes, you can really save.

  • Plug electronics into power strips that you can easily switch off when these items aren’t in use. You’ll keep them from continuing to consume power when they’re turned off.
  • If you have a laptop, you’re in luck! They can consume up to 90% less energy than a desktop.
  • Set your computer to automatically switch to sleep mode after it’s been idle for about 20 minutes.
  • Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescents*, which last up to 10 times longer, produce the same amount of light without the excess heat, and will help you save energy.
  • Place electronics and appliances away from air conditioning units. The heat they generate can make the air conditioner work longer.
  • Unplug battery and phone chargers when not in use or when these items are fully charged.
When you use these energy-savers you’ll save money and beat the heat, so you can keep your wallet fuller and your home cooler.

*Compact fluorescent bulbs should be handled carefully. Please refer to the Environmental Protection Agency website for helpful tips and guidelines for safely installing and disposing of these bulbs.