Home Energy Hacks

Heating and cooling systems are the largest energy users in most American homes. The thermostat, although small, controls how and when your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system works. By tweaking your thermostat habits, you can reduce electricity consumption, lower your monthly utility bills, and improve overall energy efficiency.

Drafty windows are one of the most common sources of energy waste in homes. Whether it's summer or winter, gaps and leaks around windows let your hard-earned heating or cooling escape, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime. That means higher utility bills and a less comfortable living space.

Many homes today are packed with electronics — televisions, chargers, gaming consoles, computers, kitchen gadgets, and more. Even when these devices are turned off, many of them still consume electricity. This invisible power draw is known as phantom energy, standby power, or vampire electricity.

Staying cool in the summer is important, but keeping energy costs low is just as critical for many households. Air conditioning and ceiling fans are both widely used for indoor climate control, but knowing when to use which can help you save money and reduce your home’s energy usage.

Lightbulbs may seem like a small detail in your home, but the type you choose can have a big impact on your electricity bill. With lighting accounting for about 10% of household electricity use in the U.S., selecting energy-efficient bulbs is a simple and effective way to reduce costs over time.

When it comes to home energy savings, we often think of big changes—upgrading appliances, sealing drafts, or replacing windows. But small adjustments can add up too, especially when they involve energy that’s already being used. One often-overlooked hack for trimming your utility bills is making use of residual oven heat.

Programmable thermostats are one of the easiest and most cost-effective upgrades you can make to your home. When set up correctly, they can save you as much as 10 to 15 percent a year on heating costs, all while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.

Hot water is one of the biggest hidden energy costs in most homes. Whether you're taking showers, washing dishes, or running the laundry, your water heater is working constantly — often behind the scenes. If you use a gas-powered water heater, it can account for up to 18% of your total energy bill.