March Madness isn’t just for basketball—it’s also the perfect opportunity to take charge of your energy bills. Put on a full court press and score big with these energy-saving tips!
Efficient Laundry Practices: Hot water heating accounts for about 90% of your washer’s energy use, so wash laundry in cold water whenever possible. Wash full loads or, if you must wash a partial load, adjust the water level. Clean your dryer’s lint trap before every load, and avoid over-drying clothes. These actions could save you as much as $40 a year.
Smart Dishwasher Settings: Rather than pre-rinsing dishes, which can use up to 20 gallons of water, simply scrape food into the garbage. Run the dishwasher only when it’s full, and select the no-heat drying option to save up to 20% on energy bills.
Energy Efficient Cooking: Prepare as many dishes as possible using a microwave, slow cooker, air fryer, or toaster oven. These appliances cook food faster and can consume up to 75% less energy than a traditional oven. Also, using the appropriately sized pot on a burner can save around $36 a year with an electric range or $18 a year with a gas stove.