With rising energy bills and growing concerns about sustainability, finding ways to conserve energy at home has never been more critical. Small changes can add to significant savings.
This guide explores the best AC temperature for saving energy—plus 14 other actionable, budget-friendly tips for reducing energy use throughout your home.
Smart Climate Control
Heating and cooling account for a significant portion of the average household’s energy usage. But with the right tools and habits, you can stay comfortable year-round without straining your budget. This section will cover the best thermostat settings and innovative strategies to help you manage your climate control more efficiently and affordably.
1. Set the Best AC Temperature for Energy Saving – 78°F
Yes, it seems warm, but the U.S. Department of Energy has found that the best AC temperature for energy saving during summer is 78°F (26°C) when you’re home and awake. This setting provides a balance between comfort and efficiency. If you don’t, at night or when away, increase the temperature by 7–10°F to reduce energy use. Ceiling fans with a slightly higher thermostat setting can also maintain comfort while using less power. Remember, every degree lower on your thermostat can increase energy consumption by up to 3%.
2. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats help you automate and optimize your home’s heating and cooling schedule. Devices like Nest or ecobee learn your habits and adjust settings based on your preferences, time of day, and even local weather. You can program temperature setbacks for when you’re asleep or away, resulting in substantial energy savings over time. They also allow remote access to control your home’s temperature while out. Learn more in our guide to smart thermostats.
3. Use Ceiling Fans to Supplement Cooling
Ceiling fans don’t cool the air but circulate it to create a wind-chill effect, making you feel cooler. This allows you to raise the thermostat setting by about 4°F without a noticeable difference in comfort. Remember to turn fans off when leaving a room to avoid unnecessary energy use. Installing Energy Star-rated ceiling fans can enhance energy efficiency even further.
Energy-Efficient Lighting
Lighting accounts for a noticeable portion of household electricity usage, but it’s also one of the easiest areas to optimize. By switching to more efficient lighting technologies and more thoughtful use of daylight, you can reduce your electricity bill without sacrificing brightness or ambiance. This section will highlight two straightforward ways to improve lighting efficiency throughout your home.
4. Switch to LED Lighting
LED bulbs use at least 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent lighting. Upgrading to LEDs not only reduces energy bills but also minimizes the hassle of frequent replacements. LEDs are available in a wide range of brightness and color temperatures, making them suitable for every room. For more details, check out our LED lighting guide.
5. Use Natural Light Strategically
Make the most of daylight to reduce the need for artificial lighting. Open blinds and curtains during the day, especially in rooms with a lot of sunlight. South-facing windows typically provide the most consistent natural light. To prevent overheating in warmer months, use sheer curtains or solar shades that allow light in while reducing heat gain.
Smarter Appliances & Electronics
Many household appliances and electronics use energy even when you’re not actively using them. Fortunately, a few simple changes in how you choose, use, and manage these devices can lead to substantial savings. This section will focus on thoughtful usage strategies and efficient appliance choices that reduce waste and trim utility bills.
6. Choose ENERGY STAR Appliances
ENERGY STAR-certified appliances meet strict efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. From refrigerators to washing machines, these models use significantly less energy and water, translating to long-term savings. Though the upfront cost might be higher, lower utility bills and potential rebates make them a wise investment. Learn more about Energy Star appliances in our overview.
7. Unplug Idle Electronics
Many devices continue to draw power even when turned off—this is known as phantom load. Unplugging devices like chargers, microwaves, or televisions when not in use can save up to 10% on your electricity bill. Alternatively, use smart power strips that cut power automatically when devices go idle.
8. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
About 90% of the energy washing machines use goes to heating water. Washing in cold water saves energy and helps preserve fabric and color. Today’s laundry detergents are formulated to work effectively in lower temperatures, so you don’t sacrifice cleanliness for savings.’
Heating, Water, and Insulation
Heating your home and water supply can account for much of your energy usage—especially in older or poorly insulated homes. But with just a few updates and maintenance practices, you can drastically reduce wasted energy. This section will focus on practical ways to lower heating costs and improve your home’s thermal efficiency.
9. Lower the Temperature on Your Water Heater
Water heaters are among the biggest energy consumers in the home. Setting yours to 120°F is usually sufficient for daily use and can save 6–10% annually in water heating costs. A further reduction could yield even more savings for households with fewer hot water needs. Be sure to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before making adjustments.
10. Seal Air Leaks and Insulate Your Home
Unsealed gaps around windows, doors, and vents can let conditioned air escape, forcing your HVAC system to work harder. Sealing these gaps with caulk or weatherstripping can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to 20%. Insulating attics, crawl spaces, and walls improve your home’s thermal envelope.
Home Upgrades That Pay Off
Some home improvements require a more significant upfront investment, but they can pay off significantly in the long run through energy savings and increased comfort. In this section, we’ll highlight impactful upgrades—like solar panels and energy-efficient windows—that can transform your home’s efficiency while reducing your environmental footprint.
11. Install Residential Solar Panels
Solar energy can significantly cut your electric bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Though installation costs are expensive, federal and state incentives often offset the expense. Over time, solar panels can offer substantial savings. For a deep dive, visit our guide to residential solar panels.
12. Upgrade Your Windows
Old, single-pane windows are a significant source of energy loss. Upgrading to double- or triple-pane windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings improves insulation and can reduce heating and cooling costs. Look for ENERGY STAR-rated windows for the best efficiency.
Everyday Habits that Make a Difference
Not every energy-saving action requires a significant investment. Some of the most effective ways to cut back on electricity use come down to simple, everyday habits. We can significantly reduce waste by being mindful of how and when we use energy in our routines. This section covers practical behaviors that are easy to adopt and can make a big difference over time.
13. Turn Off Lights When Not in Use
It sounds simple, but it’s often overlooked. Turning off lights when leaving a room can save a surprising amount over time. Motion-sensing light switches or reminders placed near doors can help build the habit. Over a year, these small acts contribute to meaningful savings.
14. Use Your Dishwasher Efficiently
Run full loads, use the air-dry setting, and avoid running the dishwasher during peak hours. ENERGY STAR dishwashers are also more efficient, using less water and electricity. Skip pre-rinsing when possible—modern dishwashers are built to handle it.
15. Set an Energy Budget and Track Usage
Awareness is the first step to saving. Use energy tracking apps or your utility provider’s online tools to monitor usage. Monthly energy goals can help hold your household accountable and highlight waste patterns.
Final Thoughts
Cutting energy costs doesn’t require drastic changes—just consistent, thoughtful actions. Implementing even a few of these tips will result in lower bills and a smaller environmental footprint. Do you have a favorite energy-saving hack? We’d love to hear it!
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