Six Tips for Back-to-School Energy Savings
The summer air is starting to cool, the leaves are slowly turning to the colors of fall and kids are back in school. While the kids are spending their days learning in the classroom, spend some time of your own to learn simple ways to save energy throughout your home and give yourself more control over your energy bill.
Get started with these back-to-school energy-saving strategies:
1. Unplug: Mornings before school can be hectic. Before you rush out the door, don’t forget to unplug devices like video game consoles, chargers and tablets. Devices and appliances that are left plugged in still draw power even when turned off or fully charged. Make it a habit to unplug before heading out the door or – even better – tackle the night before.
2. Close the Refrigerator: Do your kids pack their lunches? If so, start taking out all the ingredients at the same time. Opening and closing the door multiple times forces your refrigerator to work harder and, as a result, uses more energy.
3. Invest in a Smart Thermostat: A smart or programmable thermostat gives you more control over your home’s temperature and energy used for heating and cooling. While you’re gone, the thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature according to its preset schedule and turn it back on before you return home. Learn more about smart thermostat benefits.
4. Load up on Laundry: Between school clothes, sports and other activities, back to school often means more laundry. Make sure you’re washing a full load before starting the washing machine. Use cold water, too! It does the same job as warmer water would, unless you’re fighting stains.
5. Cook Smart: Fall is a great time to take out the crock pot or pressure cooker and utilize your smaller appliances. Not only can these smaller appliances make mealtimes easier, but they also use less energy than an oven or stovetop.
6. Look for the ENERGY STAR®: If items like tablets or laptops are on your back-to-school shopping list – or even items for college students like mini refrigerators and room air conditioners – look for the ENERGY STAR label. Electronics and other devices that are ENERGY STAR certified are more energy efficient and can save you money over time.
For more tips and resources to save energy and money all year, visit www.firstenergycorp.com/saveenergy.
CONTACT: Brooke Conlan, 330-807-7564