Low-cost ways to save
Cooking and cleaning
Cooking and cleaning can get repetitive and automatic over time. Here are some tips to change up your routine and find savings.
When doing laundry, always wash and dry with full loads. That way you get the most out of the energy you use. Washing in cold water not only saves your clothes, but also can save the average household as much as $40 a year in heating costs.
Most dryers are equipped with a moisture sensor. Using this setting versus the timer will ensure you are not running the dryer when your clothes are already dry. You also can use the air dry setting on your machine to save. If the weather is nice, skip the dryer and hang your laundry outside to dry.
When cleaning yourself, try to avoid taking long showers that use lots of hot water. Setting a timer can help remind you when it's time to finish up.
In the kitchen, cook up some savings by balancing the use of small appliances like a toaster oven, microwave, air fryer or slow cooker and your cooking range.
When using the oven, try to avoid opening the door while cooking.
Make sure gas burners are clean for efficient use. Covering cooking pots and matching the pot to the burner size can save about $36 a year, if you have an electric range.
Avoid common energy wasters when it comes to dishwashing. Rather than pre-rinsing dishes, which can use up to 20 gallons of water alone, simply scrape food off dishes and into the garbage. Run only when full, avoid water-heating boost when possible and select the no-heat drying option.
The more full your refrigerator, the less energy it takes to keep your food cool. Set hot foods out to cool before putting them away.
Keeping your refrigerator properly maintained only requires a coil-cleaning brush, if there are exposed coils at the bottom or rear. You also should check and replace door seals if they're not airtight.
Adjusting some of your household habits can lead to savings over time. Try one or two things at a time and go at your own pace. Eventually, try to master all of these energy-saving habits!
Now that you know lots of ways to save energy at home, talk to your family members or housemates. Together, you can make a plan to implement some or all of these tips to help save money.
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