Reducing how much energy you use in your home isn’t difficult, and being more focused on conservation doesn’t have to cost a lot of money or take a lot of effort. Here are 10 energy — and money — saving tips you can implement quickly and easily that could have a big impact on your consumption, the total amount of electricity used during a specified time period, and on demand, the maximum amount of electricity you use at any one time.

  1. Set your thermostat to 78 degrees or higher when cooling your home and 68 degrees or lower when heating your home. Each additional degree can cost up to 8% more on your heating and cooling costs.
  2. Trim bushes and clear the area around your outdoor HVAC unit so nothing obstructs air intake. Airflow problems can reduce your system’s efficiency by up to 15%.
  3. Use ceiling fans. During warmer months, make sure they turn counterclockwise, and reverse the direction in cooler months. Remember to turn them off when the room is empty.
  4. In warmer months, use shades, drapes and blinds to keep sun and heat out, especially on windows that face east or west. During cooler months, open window coverings to let heat in during the day.
  5. Change A/C filters monthly. Dirty filters restrict air flow, making the system work harder to keep you cool or warm.
  6. Sealing air leaks helps your home feel more comfortable and improves energy efficiency. Simple fixes include installing weather stripping on doors and caulking around windows. Film window coverings also help improve efficiency and qualify for an OUC rebate.
  7. Wash only full loads in the dishwasher and clothes washer. Because water heating can account for 14% to 25% of the energy consumed in your home, consider washing in cold water.
  8. Unplug appliances when not in use. Even when “off,” they still draw electricity from outlets. TVs, stereos, computers and kitchen appliances are the usual suspects.
  9. Reduce your demand on the electric grid by “staggering” your appliance use. Run one large appliance – dishwasher, clothes dryer, oven, etc. – after one another rather at the same time.
  10. Check your water heater temperature to ensure it is set no higher than 120 degrees, otherwise you’re wasting energy.

The first step to conserving energy is knowing how much you currently use. OUC’s Usage Dashboard is a free tool for OUC customers that shows you the days and times you use the most electricity. By keeping track of your usage patterns, you can take steps to use less energy and save money on your bill.