During the past 30 years, home appliances have steadily become more energy efficient. A microwave oven uses 90 percent less energy to cook a meal than a conventional gas oven, and compact fluorescent light bulbs can offer light similar to incandescent bulbs but use 75 percent less electricity to do so. Refrigerators now use less than half as much electricity as those built in the 1970s. So when you decide to purchase new appliances, make sure they're high efficiency. The higher up-front price will save you money in the long run.
Energy-efficient lighting can help reduce your energy use and save you money.
Simple maintenance steps can go a long way to keep your refrigerator running efficiently.
Save on water heater costs with basic changes you can implement around the house today.
Every time you open that oven door, you may lose 25 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Running loads with cold or lukewarm water can save and energy and reduce lint.
Other appliances
Small changes can make a big difference.
The best thing you can do to reduce your electronics energy use is it to turn off equipment — like computer monitors and printers — when you're not using them. Activate power-saving features on your computers and office equipment so they'll shut down when you're not using them.
For equipment like DVD players, TVs, stereos, computers and kitchen appliances, use Smart Power Strips to cut all of power to the appliances. Many electronics go into standby mode when you turn them off and will continue to draw a small amount of power.
For more information about appliance and equipment efficiency and commercial equipment standards, go to the U.S. Department of Energy website.