Being an energy-smart consumer means getting the most from the energy you use. Here’s how you can cut energy waste without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
• Move your refrigerator if it’s near the stove, dishwasher or heat vents. Vacuum the coils every three months to eliminate dirt buildup that reduces efficiency. Check the door gaskets for air leaks. Defrost the freezer when more than a quarter-inch of ice builds up.
• Scrape but don’t pre-rinse dishes by hand if you have a dishwasher that automatically pre-rinses or has a rinse/hold cycle. Use the “energy saver” option found on many machines.
• Use pots that fit the size of your stove-top burners. Use lids on your pots and pans so you can cook at a lower burner setting.
• Match the water level and temperature settings on your clothes washer to the size of your load. Don’t fill the whole tub for a few small items.
• Clean your clothes dryer filters after each use or as necessary.
• Ensure that the temperature on your water heater is set to 120 degrees. Some thermostats are preset at the factory to 140 degrees.
Source: Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Consumer Protection Division of Consumer and Business Education
