A new year is here, and it’s a perfect time to adopt energy-saving habits and live more sustainably. Here are 10 simple steps you can start using now:
- Turn things off. The easiest — and cheapest — way to save energy? Turn off lights and devices when you leave a room or finish using them.
- Adjust your thermostat. Lower the temperature at night or when you are not at home. A smart thermostat makes this easier by automatically adjusting settings based on your schedule.
- Plug smarter. Many electronic devices continue to draw power even when turned off or not in use. Unplug chargers and other devices when you're not using them, or use smart plugs and advanced power strips to cut phantom energy.
- Change your HVAC filter. A dirty filter forces your system to work harder, wasting energy and money. Check and replace filters regularly according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
- Close the curtain on heat loss. Windows are a major source of heat loss, but decorative window treatments — such as draperies, shades, and shutters — will help keep that heat inside your house.
- Take shorter showers. That long, hot shower may feel good, but it can waste water and energy. Keep your showers to 10 minutes or less to save both.
- Lower the temperature of your water heater. Tank water heaters are typically set to 140°F. Lower the thermostat to 120°F to save energy without sacrificing comfort.
- Cook efficiently. Cover pots and pans to cook faster and keep your kitchen cooler. Match cookware to the size of the burner and keep burners clean for added efficiency.
- Air-dry your laundry. When doing laundry, why not air-dry your clothes? It will save you the cost of running the dryer and may help clothes last longer.
- Run full loads. Wait until you have a full load before running your clothes washer or dishwasher. Partial loads use the same amount of energy for less work.
Keep the momentum going — small changes add up! When we all reduce our energy costs, we lower demand and create a cleaner, more sustainable community. Take the steps into 2026 and beyond!