How to Save Energy During the Fall

As the seasons change, leaves begin to fall, and summer heat turns into crisp autumn air, many people naturally begin to use less energy in their homes. But there are still steps you can take to reduce your energy usage even further—lowering both your power bill and your carbon footprint. Here are some simple ways you can save energy during the cooler autumn months:

1. Be smart with your thermostat

One of the most effective ways to reduce your energy usage is to manage your thermostat wisely. Don’t use more heat or air conditioning than you need to: take advantage of the sun to help warm up your home on chilly days and the natural fall breeze to cool your home on nicer days. Adjust your thermostat when you’re out of the house, when you’re on vacation, and even at night to save energy and money. 

2. Invest in a smart thermostat

By allowing you to adjust the temperature from your smartphone and automatically self-adjusting based on the current weather, smart thermostats can help keep you comfortable when you’re home and save energy when you’re not.

3. Replace your air filters 

Replacing dirty air filters with new, clean filters will improve airflow and increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems. This simple step could lower your energy consumption by up to 15%! 

4. Turn down your water heater

Water heating accounts for about 18% of the average electricity bill—making it the second largest energy expense in your home. Turning down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F) can help reduce your energy consumption.

5. Don’t waste energy while doing the dishes or your laundry

Use cold water to wash your clothes, hang your laundry to dry instead of using the dryer, and turn off the heated drying setting on your dishwasher to save a surprising amount of energy.

6. Switch to Energy Star appliances

Increase your home's energy efficiency by upgrading to an Energy Star-certified dishwasher, refrigerator, or dryer. Check out energystar.gov to find energy-efficient products and rebates.

7. Switch to energy-efficient lighting

Did you know that LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescents? Swapping out your incandescent bulbs for LED bulbs is an easy way you can save a ton of energy and money over time. 

8. Have your HVAC system serviced

Having your heating and cooling system inspected, cleaned, and serviced at least once a year helps ensure it’s working at maximum efficiency. 

9. Clean your air ducts and vents

Cleaning out all the dust and dirt that has accumulated makes things easier for both your lungs and your heating and cooling systems. You’ll save energy and may even increase the system’s lifespan.

10. Seal your air ducts

Leaky air ducts can reduce the efficiency of heating and cooling systems by up to 30%. Sealing and insulating ducts can prevent you from wasting a significant amount of energy and money.

11. Seal any air leaks

Caulking, sealing, and weather-stripping cracks and openings around your windows, doors, or any other openings can help keep air from leaking out of or into your home—helping your heating and cooling systems run at maximum efficiency.

12. Unplug and get outside! 

Give your electronics a rest and enjoy the refreshingly crisp fall air as often as you can. To take full advantage of the fall season, check out our blog post to find the best hiking destination in your state for viewing the beautiful fall foliage!

Small steps like these can make a big difference in your home’s energy consumption—helping you save both energy and money. Once you’ve taken these steps to cut back on your energy usage, make sure the energy you do use comes from clean, green sources. By upgrading to 100% renewable energy for your home, you can play a role in fighting climate change and creating a cleaner planet for us all. Learn more about how you can sign up today in just 2 minutes!