Stop Doing These 5 Things

1. Standing in front of an open refrigerator/freezer. 🚫
   We all do it, stare into the cold abyss looking for some tasty treat and let all the cold air out. While it might feel nice on a hot day, keeping the refrigerator door open longer than necessary is not helping your energy bill. Try to limit your time just browsing the contents of your refrigerator.
   
   
   
2. Not changing your air filters regularly. 🚫
   Your HVAC is one of the largest consumers of energy in your home, around 32%. You want to keep it operating as efficiently as possible; a clogged or dirty air filter can change that. Change your filters as recommended by your HVACs manufacturer to keep your system in tip top shape.
   
   
   
3. Not programming your programmable/smart thermostat 🚫
   One of the easiest ways to save money is to use your programmable thermostat. According to energy.gov, you can save as much as 10% a year by adjusting your thermostat 7-10 degrees for 8 hours a day. When schedules change (return to school, work, vacations, even the seasons), people often do not change their thermostats and miss out on savings! Program your thermostat to adjust a few degrees when you leave in the morning, and then start cooling back down for your return. Even if you work at home, you may want to keep your home cooler at night than in the daytime.
   
   
   
4. Washing your clothes in hot water 🚫
   Washing machines and detergents are specifically made for efficiency and cold water these days. By washing your clothes in cold water, you are not only saving energy but are also helping to protect your clothes. Always check the label, but for day-to-day laundry, your default setting should be cold water.
   
   
   
5. Leaving the lights/fan on when not in a room 🚫
   “Who left the lights on? My bill is going to be huge” – Every Dad Ever
   Small things can add up, and turning the lights off when you leave a room is one of those savings. Not keeping a fan running in an empty room is another saving as they help cool people, not rooms. Dad was right, but don’t tell him; he already knows.

Try stopping a few of these bad habits and see if it makes a difference on your electric bill. You will be helping your wallet and the environment!