Energy Efficiency Fails

Does your house have a refrigerator zombie? How about someone who never shuts the door? Check out this list of common energy fails. (And if it feels too familiar, start on the fixes to help reign in your energy use.

6. Laundry Sauna

FAIL: He runs a whole wash cycle for that one favorite tee, and cranks up the heat on both the water and clothes dryer temps.

FIX: Wash full loads. And cool it down, buddy. Most clothes get perfectly clean with cold water, saving water heating costs, and a cooler dryer will save electricity usage even if you have to run it twice. Oh, and while you’re at it, clean the lint trap.

5. Open Fridge Standoff

FAIL: There she stands, gazing into the abyss, silhouetted by the glow from within. If she persists just a little longer, perhaps there will be a shift. Suddenly, the leftovers will align with her cravings and the choice will be clear…

FIX: Snack decisions are hard. But try to make one with the door shut. It can help you save money to buy more snacks!

4. The Filthy Filter

FAIL: There’s dust and pet hair all over the house. Wow, it’s really caked up on that grille on the wall behind the chair. Oh right … we have an air filter?

FIX: Change or clean air filters every 1-3 months, especially in summer and winter when your heating and cooling system is running more. And keep them clear of furniture. Dirty or blocked filters can restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder, your bill to go up, and your air to be less, well, filtered.

3. An Expensive Breeze

FAIL: Trying to cool the whole neighborhood with that open window? Money is slipping right out into the fresh air, along with the conditioned air.

FIX: Keep doors and windows closed while you’re running your air conditioner, and seal leaks for maximum efficiency, comfort and savings. Sealing your attic and ductwork can help lower your energy bill, too, and you can apply for rebates to help with the expense.

2. The Garage Refrigerator

FAIL: That garage fridge is ancient, sucking up way more energy than the lonely six-pack inside is worth.

FIX: Is it time to let it go? Upgrade to ENERGY STAR® appliances to save big on your bill. Otherwise, donate it and free up space (and cash).

1. Thermostat Wars

FAIL: He turns it up. She turns it down. He turns it up. She turns it down. He turns it up… then they leave for the day and forget to adjust accordingly.

FIX: Compromise on comfortable temperatures for different times of day, then use a programmable thermostat to set it and forget it! (Buy one at a discount.) Heating and cooling is the biggest energy-user in most homes, so this change can really help you save. And if you opt for a smart thermostat, you can even adjust it from your mobile device on the go.