Happy mom and son in a laundry room

Low-cost, no-cost energy saving tips

10 things to start doing today

old refrigerator

1. Unplug (or replace) your second refrigerator or freezer.

Refrigerators that are at least 10 years old use a lot of energy. If you have a second fridge, retire it or plug it in only when you really need it.
wash machine

2. Wash your laundry in cold water.

Look for detergents specifically formulated for cold water. Your clothes will still get as clean as before, for a lower price.
LED bulb

3. Replace your home's five most frequently used bulbs with LEDs.

LEDs are more expensive upfront, but you’ll likely recoup the cost in less than a year because of the energy savings.
microwave oven

4. Use your microwave instead of a conventional oven.

You can save up to 50% of your energy usage compared to a conventional electric oven. It also cooks your food much faster.
ceiling fan

5. Use ceiling fans, but only when you are in the room.

Ceiling fans cool the people in the room, not the air, so be sure to turn them off when you leave the room.
phone and charger

6. Unplug chargers when not in use.

Many chargers (including those for computers, phones, power tools, shavers, electric toothbrushes and other battery-powered devices) draw a small amount of electricity even when the device they charge is not plugged in or after the device is fully charged. That adds up over time.
smart thermostat

7. Set your thermostat up in summer.

Air conditioners use a lot of power. On average, for every degree you turn up your thermostat, you save about 3% on your energy bills.
smart thermostat

8. Set your thermostat down in winter.

Two little degrees. That's all it takes to cut your winter heating bill. Throw on an extra layer of clothing, turn down the thermostat and save!
shower head

9. Save on hot water use.

Shorten your showers by a minute or two, and don't let the hot water run when you shave or brush your teeth. In the kitchen, run the water only when rinsing the dishes.
water heater controller

10. Turn down the thermostat on your water heater.

Lowering the temperature by at least 10 degrees can save you up to 5% on your water heating costs. 120 degrees is a good recommendation.
happy couple on couch with laptop

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Pete Seyfer and Megan Turner from Alliant Energy PowerHouse

PowerHouse TV

Alliant Energy's PowerHouse is an award-winning educational program designed to help you improve the energy efficiency, safety and comfort of your home. Hosts Pete Seyfer and Megan Turner demonstrate easy do-it-yourself energy improvements, interview local experts and tour energy-smart homes throughout the Midwest.

Visit powerhousetv.com

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