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Look for Energy Star labels when buying applicances.
Energy Star refrigerators and freezers are 62% more energy efficient then models manufactured in the 1980's.
Refrigerators/Freezers
No Cost
- Keep refrigerator and freezer full and minimize the number of times you open the door.
- If your refrigerator is equipped with an energy saver switch, use it whenever possible.
- Allow sufficient air space around food containers in the refrigerator for good air circulation and make sure the inside vents are not blocked.
- Make sure the door gasket seals well.
- Clean external coils behind and beneath the refrigerator regularly.
- Keep kick plates free of dust for proper circulation.
- Unplug refrigerators and freezers that are not in use.
- Don't allow frost to build up more than a quarter of an inch on manual defrost freezers.
Investment with Payback
- Chest freezers are 10-25 per cent more efficient than upright models.
- Older refrigerators and freezers consume more energy than newer models. For example, a typical new refrigerator uses approximately 1/3 of the energy of 1973 models.
- When buying a refrigerator or freezer buy one with an Energy Star rating.
Laundry
No Cost
- Wash in cold water whenever possible.
- Load washers and dryers to capacity but don't over-load.
- Use water level controls to use less water for smaller loads.
- Follow detergent instructions. Using too much soap makes the washing machine work harder.
- Line dry laundry outside when possible.
- Clean the dryer's lint filter after each load.
- Use your automatic cycle and don’t over dry clothes.
Investment with Payback
- When buying a new washer or dryer, buy one with an Energy Star rating.
Cooking
No Cost
- When using the oven, cook as many dishes as possible at one time.
- Keep lids on your pots while cooking.
- Use the smallest pot or pan and burner needed for the job.
- Minimize the number of times you open the door while cooking and use a clock or timer.
- Preheat the oven only for items requiring precise starting temperatures.
- Turn off electric surface units and oven a short time before food is done allowing retained heat to complete cooking.
- Thaw frozen foods before cooking.
- Keep burner pans clean and shiny to reflect heat efficiently.
Low Cost
- Seek alternate cooking sources such as a pressure cooker, toaster oven or microwave oven. Smaller appliances generally use less energy.
Investment with Payback
- When buying a new electric range, buy one with an Energy Star rating.
Computers and other electrical items
No Cost
- Computers, fax machines, TV's, VCR's, CD players, cable boxes, cassette decks consume energy because of their standby features. Consider unplugging them when you leave home or go on vacation.
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