Reducing Home Energy Use

Home insulation in an attic.

Taking actions such as installing additional insulation or adding weatherstripping windows and exterior doors are easy, economical and can have a great impact on energy use, thus reducing utility bills and saving money. Replacing old appliances with Energy Star-certified can save money over time too, with their reduced energy use.

Whenever you save energy, you not only save money, you also reduce the demand for such fossil fuels as coal, oil and natural gas. Burning less fossil fuels also means lower carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, the primary contributor to global warming, and other pollutants.

Prevent Energy Waste

  • Cut back on air conditioning and heating use as much as you can while still being comfortable.
  • Put clothes out to dry instead of using your dryer.
  • Have leaky air conditioning and refrigeration systems repaired.
  • Insulate your home, water heater and pipes.
  • Lower your energy bill by cleaning the lint trap on your clothes dryer before every load to improve air circulation and reduce energy-wasting drying time. Operating the dryer for an extra 15 minutes per load can cost as much as $34 per year, according to ENERGY STAR®.
  • Purchase Green Power for your home's electricity. Contact your power supplier to see where and if it is available.
  • To stop drafts, install weather stripping around doors and caulk cracks around windows. Check heating and cooling system ducts to make sure all joints are connected and well sealed. Use mastic sealant or foil-backed tape to seal ducts.