Saving energy at home follows a simple rule: start where the most energy goes. In most US homes, that is heating and cooling, followed by water heating. Changing light bulbs helps, but fixing a leaky, under-insulated house helps far more.
1. Heating and cooling
- Thermostat settings: the Department of Energy suggests about 68°F in winter while you are awake and 78°F in summer when you are at home, and setting it back 7 to 10°F for eight hours a day can save up to around 10 percent a year on heating and cooling. A programmable or smart thermostat does this automatically (ENERGY STAR smart thermostats).
- Maintenance: replace or clean the furnace filter regularly and have the system serviced.
- Ceiling fans let you feel cooler at a higher thermostat setting; turn them off when you leave the room.
- Heat pumps are far more efficient than electric resistance heating and, in many areas, qualify for rebates or tax credits.
2. Seal and insulate
Air leaks around windows, doors, attic hatches and plumbing are often the cheapest fix. Then check attic insulation. Types and levels are covered in the different types of insulation.
3. Water heating
Set the water heater to 120°F, insulate the first few feet of hot water pipe, fix drips and install WaterSense showerheads and faucet aerators. Washing clothes in cold water saves energy without affecting most laundry.
4. Lighting and electronics
LED bulbs use a fraction of the energy of incandescent ones and last much longer. Many electronics draw power on standby: smart power strips or simply unplugging chargers and old devices helps.
5. Appliances
When replacing appliances, look for the ENERGY STAR label. Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full. Keep the fridge at about 37 to 40°F and the freezer at 0°F, and clean the condenser coils.
6. Make the house greener overall
Energy efficiency is the core of an eco-friendly home, but it is not the only piece:
- Reduce water use outdoors with native plants and drip irrigation.
- Choose durable, repairable products and buy second-hand furniture.
- Compost kitchen scraps and recycle correctly.
- Consider solar panels once the house itself is efficient; check local incentives first.
- Use low-VOC paints and finishes for better indoor air.
Get a home energy audit
Many utilities offer free or discounted energy audits, often with a blower door test that shows exactly where air leaks. It is the best way to prioritize. ENERGY STAR’s Save at Home pages offer room-by-room advice. Weatherproofing also protects the house itself, see how to protect your home from the elements.
