Even the newest and most efficient home technologies can lead to high energy bills if they aren’t used thoughtfully. Daily habits play a major role in overall energy consumption. Understanding how behavior affects energy use helps you get the most value from the technology already in your home.
How often you use energy-consuming devices has a direct impact on your energy bills. For example, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers are often measured in loads per year. Running multiple small loads instead of fewer full loads increases energy and water use.
Other energy consumers, such as lighting, heating, and air conditioning, are better measured in hours of use per day. Leaving lights on all day or running air conditioning longer than necessary can significantly increase electricity consumption, even if the equipment itself is efficient.
Unplugging devices when they’re not needed is one of the simplest ways to reduce energy use. This reduces a home’s “vampire loads” (or standby energy), which come from electronics like TVs, cable boxes, game consoles, and chargers that draw power while plugged in. Over time, these small, constant energy draws can add up.
One of the most effective ways to save energy is to reduce how much energy you need in the first place. Small adjustments in daily habits can significantly lower demand on heating and cooling systems, which are often the largest energy users in a home.
For example, wearing warmer clothing in winter can allow you to lower the thermostat without sacrificing comfort. In summer, wearing lighter, breathable clothing can reduce the need for air conditioning. Using blankets, opening or closing curtains strategically, and adjusting schedules to avoid peak heat or cold can all reduce the amount of energy your home needs to stay comfortable.