As summer transitions into fall and children return to school, it’s an opportune time for families to adopt energy-saving habits at home. Implementing a few simple strategies can help manage energy consumption and reduce utility bills.
Here are six tips to consider:
1. **Unplug Devices**: Mornings can be chaotic, but before leaving the house, remember to unplug devices such as video game consoles, chargers, and tablets. These items draw power even when not in use or fully charged. Establishing a routine of unplugging devices before heading out or the night before can help save energy.
2. **Efficient Refrigerator Use**: If your children pack their lunches, try to take out all necessary ingredients at once. Frequently opening and closing the refrigerator door forces it to work harder, consuming more energy.
3. **Smart Thermostat Investment**: A smart or programmable thermostat allows better control over home temperatures and energy used for heating and cooling. These thermostats can adjust temperatures automatically according to preset schedules while you’re away and revert them back before you return home.
4. **Full Laundry Loads**: The back-to-school season often brings an increase in laundry due to school clothes, sports activities, and other events. Ensure you wash full loads of laundry using cold water whenever possible, as it is equally effective unless dealing with stains.
5. **Utilize Smaller Appliances**: Fall is ideal for using crock pots or pressure cookers instead of ovens or stovetops for meal preparation. These smaller appliances are not only convenient but also consume less energy.
6. **Choose ENERGY STAR® Products**: When shopping for back-to-school electronics like tablets or laptops—or items for college students such as mini refrigerators and room air conditioners—look for the ENERGY STAR label. Certified products are more energy-efficient and offer long-term savings.
For additional tips on saving energy throughout the year, visit www.firstenergycorp.com/saveenergy.
Contact:
Brooke Conlan
330-807-7564
