Put Your House on an Energy Diet
January 6, 2026
This month, as you make your resolutions, consider adding another goal: using less energy. If you want to keep your house trim and fit in the new year, adopt these 14 easy ways to reduce your energy consumption.
- Fix the fireplace.
Fireplaces and chimneys should be checked and cleaned regularly. Keep fireplace dampers closed when not in use to prevent warm indoor air from escaping through the chimney. - Switch shower heads and toilets.
Install low-flow toilets, shower heads, and faucet aerators, potentially saving 2,700 gallons of water and more than 330 kilowatt-hours of electricity. - Get a heat pump.
Heat pumps both heat and cool a home. This dual-purpose process can save both energy and money over time. - Swap out old lights for LEDs.
LEDs use about 90 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs, and they last up to 25 times longer. - Address drafty doors and windows.
Sealing leaks can save you an estimated 20 percent on heating and cooling costs. - Seal the attic and add insulation.
Adding insulation will boost energy efficiency and can save up to 10 percent on annual energy bills. - Circulate Air
Reverse the direction of ceiling fans during the winter to recirculate warm air collecting near the ceiling. - Fix Those Leaks
Household leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year. - Program Your Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can save you about 10% on heating and cooling costs each year. - Choose Cold Cycle
About 90% of the energy used to wash clothes goes toward heating the water. - Opt for the Dishwasher
Dishwashers use less hot water than letting the tap run as you scrub. Save more by opening the door after the final rinse to let dishes air-dry. - Change Filters
A dirty air filter means your HVAC system has to work even harder to function. - Adjust the Water Heater Temperature
Lower your water heater thermostat to 120ºF. For each 10ºF you decrease the temperature, you can save 3%–5% in energy costs. - Unplug Your Gadgets
“Vampire power” costs the average household about $200 a year.
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