4 Ways to Save Energy This Weekend

The week is over. Whether you have a lot to catch up on or are looking for a little relaxation time, these tips will help make your weekend more energy efficient.

1. Clean up your energy budget

While you're cleaning your house, you can make it more energy efficient. Clean behind your refrigerator. Dust buildup on coils can make the unit run less efficiently. Dust accumulation on bulbs blocks light. Wipe off bulbs to get more light for your energy dollars. Dust around vents could be a sign of leaky ducts. Hire a qualified professional to clean and inspect your HVAC system.

2. Lighten your energy load

Catching up on laundry? Look for ways to save. Run only full loads. You'll save energy and water by reducing cycles. Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. Clean the lint filter in your dryer before each load to improve air circulation. Consider air drying clothes if possible. It will save energy and reduce wear and tear on material.

3. Make energy savings your weekend project

There are plenty of simple energy-saving projects you can do yourself. Look for gaps around exterior doors and windows and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk. Insulate hot water pipes near your water heater tank. Insulation kits are available at your local home improvement retailer. Install water-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators in your bathrooms and kitchen.

4. Give your energy bill a break

Leaving for a weekend getaway? With a few simple adjustments before you leave, you'll return to lower energy bills. Adjust the thermostat to avoid wasting energy keeping your empty house comfortable. Lower the temperature setting on your water heater to reduce standby energy loss. Turn off all lights and unplug chargers and other unused electronic devices.

Upgrade for savings

Smart thermostats automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule. You can also take advantage of advanced features, such as remote control and self-programming.
Advanced power strips and smart plugs automatically shut off power to plugged-in devices when they're not in use.
WaterSense labeled fixtures — such as low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators — use less water, reducing the energy needed to heat that water.

By following these simple measures, you can start fresh with lower energy bills next week and every week.