Guide
Save energy at home: the biggest wins first
Heating and cooling usually account for around half of a household's energy use, followed by water heating, appliances and lighting. Focusing on the big items saves more than hunting for tiny savings.
1. Heating and cooling
- Lower the thermostat by 1-2 degrees in winter (and raise it in summer). Each degree can save a few percent on heating costs.
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat to reduce heating when you are asleep or away.
- Seal drafts around doors and windows; add insulation in the attic, which is often the cheapest big upgrade.
- Service your furnace or heat pump and replace filters regularly. Heat pumps are far more efficient than electric resistance heating.
2. Hot water
- Take shorter showers and fit a low-flow showerhead.
- Turn your water heater down to about 50-55°C (120-130°F); do not go below 50°C (risk of bacteria) and do not set it so high that it scalds.
- Wash clothes in cold water - detergent works well and most of a washing machine's energy goes to heating the water.
3. Lighting and appliances
- Switch to LED bulbs: they use about 75-80% less energy than old incandescent bulbs and last much longer.
- Unplug or use power strips for devices with standby drain: games consoles, TVs, chargers, old computers.
- When replacing appliances, check the energy rating (such as ENERGY STAR).
- Air-dry clothes when you can and run full loads in the dishwasher.
4. The fridge
Keep the fridge at about 3-4°C and the freezer at -18°C, vacuum the coils, and check the door seal. An old second fridge in the garage can be a surprisingly large energy drain.
5. Think big: electricity source and transport
If your area allows, choose renewable electricity or install solar. For transport, walking, cycling, public transit, car-sharing and electric vehicles reduce emissions significantly.
Measure it
Use our appliance energy cost calculator to see what individual devices cost you, and the carbon footprint calculator to compare the big categories.