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May 1, 2025 |

7 Energy-Wasting Habits You Should Break

No one sets out to waste energy, but it's easy to do. Check out these common energy-wasting habits. If they seem familiar, maybe it's time you started making energy efficiency a part of your daily routine.

1. Leaving the lights on in empty rooms
This is one of the most common energy-wasting habits and, luckily, one that's easy to fix. By simply turning off lights when you leave a room, you'll save energy and help your bulbs last longer. To save even more, install energy-efficient LEDs. They use at least 75% less energy than conventional incandescent bulbs and last a lot longer.

2. Not adjusting your thermostat
Adjusting your home's temperature at night or when you are away is the most cost-effective way to save energy, but it's easy to forget. Programmable thermostats optimize savings by automatically adjusting temperatures based on your schedule. Today's smart models provide advanced features like remote control and self-programming.

3. Falling asleep watching TV
It's easy to do. You're relaxing and watching your favorite show. Suddenly, it's 3 a.m., and you wake to an infomercial. All that late-night TV can result in some prime-time energy waste. Click the off button if you're feeling drowsy. If your set is older, upgrade to an ENERGY STAR TV. ENERGY STAR models use less energy than standard sets while providing a great viewing (or sleeping) experience.

4. Taking long showers
Did you know that standard showerheads use 2.5 to 3.0 gallons per minute? Just think of all the water and energy those 20-minute showers send down the drain. Everyone likes a hot shower, but keep it to 10 minutes or less. Also, install WaterSense®-labeled showerheads. They use less water than standard units.

5. Running partial loads
Operating your dishwasher or clothes washer with just a few dishes or a small amount of clothes may sometimes be convenient, but it's a big waste of energy. Wait until your appliance is fully loaded according to the manufacturer's guidelines before you push the button. Your clothes or dishes will be fully cleaned, and you'll save energy and water.

6. Forgetting to change your furnace filter
A dirty air filter forces your heating or cooling system to work harder to keep you comfortable. Change your furnace filter regularly according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Remember to have your heating and cooling system inspected and cleaned annually by a qualified professional.

7. Browsing in front of an open refrigerator
The time you spend deciding between lunch meat and leftover pizza can cost you cold cash. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, the average person spends about 10 hours looking at an open refrigerator or freezer every year. That's a lot of time for cold air to escape. Decide what you want and close the door quickly.

Change can be difficult. However, with a little extra time and effort, you can save energy and money today and all year long.