Energy Saving Tips for Home Appliances

*Updated May 30th, 2025

In today’s world, where energy use and environmental impact are growing concerns, making small changes in our daily lives can make a big difference. One area where you can significantly cut back is in how you use home appliances. Kitchen appliances, washing machines, and HVAC systems account for a large portion of home energy consumption.

By adopting smart energy-saving tips and making informed decisions when buying a new appliance, you can save energy, lower utility bills, and conserve energy without compromising comfort. In this article, we’ll explore simple ways to save energy at home.

1. Full is Best: Maximize Appliance Loads

Get the most from your appliances by running full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine. This simple practice saves both water and electricity. Similarly, keeping your refrigerator and freezer well-stocked helps regulate temperatures and reduces energy use—especially helpful during power outages to keep food safely frozen.

2. Turn Off Lights and Upgrade to LED

One of the easiest tips to save energy is to only use lights when needed. Make it a habit to turn off lights when leaving a room. For even more energy savings, switch to energy-efficient LED light bulbs. These use a fraction of the amount of electricity compared to incandescent light bulbs and last much longer.

3. Unplug Electronics and Small Kitchen Appliances

Many home appliances and electronic devices consume energy even when they’re not in use. This “phantom load” can increase your energy bills without you realizing it. Unplug chargers, kitchen appliances like coffee makers, and set-top boxes when not in use—or use a power strip to easily disconnect multiple items at once. This is an easy way to conserve energy and help you save money each month.4. Go Energy-Efficient with Smart Appliance Settings

When purchasing a new appliance, always look for the ENERGY STAR® label. These models meet energy efficiency standards set by the Department of Energy and typically use 30 percent less energy than standard models. Also, take advantage of appliance settings that reduce energy consumption. For example, select the air-dry option on your dishwasher instead of heat-dry.5. Replace Windows and Seal Doors

Older windows and doors can cause major heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. Upgrade to energy-efficient models or use window film, weather stripping, or thermal blinds to reduce home energy waste. These changes help you save energy and money while making your home more comfortable.

6. Maintain Heating and Cooling Systems

Your HVAC system uses a lot of energy. Reduce your heating and cooling costs by scheduling seasonal maintenance, changing filters, and sealing ductwork. Regular tune-ups help your system run efficiently and prevent moisture problems and leaks that drive up energy use.

7. Dry Strategically: Skip the Tumble Dryer

Dryers, especially the tumble dryer, are among the biggest energy drains in your home. Clean the lint filter after every cycle to boost efficiency. Better yet, air-dry your clothes using a drying rack or outdoor line to conserve energy and lower your electricity used. Try to wash clothes with cold water and air dry when possible to double the savings.8. Use Your Oven and Other Appliances Wisely

Ovens and kitchen appliances like toaster ovens use significant energy to heat the water or cook food. Use smaller appliances when cooking smaller meals to use less energy. Avoid opening the oven door while baking to prevent heat gain that forces the oven to work harder.

9. Install a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat can automatically turn your system on and off based on your schedule, helping you reduce your heating and cooling costs. For best results, set your thermostat to around 78 degrees in summer and 68 in winter. A smart thermostat can reduce your annual home’s energy usage by a substantial margin—especially if you take advantage of time-of-use utility pricing.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Incorporating these energy-saving tips into your daily routine can dramatically improve your home’s energy performance. Whether it’s upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, sealing windows and doors, or changing the way you use your dryer and thermostat, every step helps conserve energy and save energy and money.

By making small changes, you can lower your energy bills, reduce energy consumption, and do your part to protect the environment. Start today—your wallet and the planet will thank you.

Additional Appliance Resources

• How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Appliances 
• 5 Common Home Appliances Problems and How to Fix Them
• The Top Home Appliances that Save You Money