Appliances

  • Maintain the right temperature in your refrigerator and freezer
    Refrigerators can use up to 20% of the total electricity in your home The refrigerator should be set between 38°F (3°C) and 42°F (6°C). The freezer should be set between 0F (-31°C) and 5°F (-26°C).
  • Keep refrigerators full
    A full refrigerator takes less energy than an empty one. Fill extra space with gallon jugs of water placed in the back of both your refrigerator and freezer.
  • Clean the condenser coils
    Dust and pet hair can build up and cause the refrigerator motor to work harder. Clean them at least twice a year. The coils are located on the bottom or the backside of most models.
  • The doors should close tightly and stay closed
    Check the seals for cracked or worn areas. If there are any, replace them.
  • Open the refrigerator as little as possible
    Every time the door opens, warm air rushes in.
  • Let food cool
    Don't place hot or even warm food directly inside the refrigerator. Let it cool first.
  • Always cover everything
    Humidity escapes from uncovered foods. The compressor must work harder to remove excess humidity.
  • Defrost food in the refrigerator
    Instead of defrosting food on the counter where it may spoil, place it in the refrigerator 24 hours before you need it. This will help keep the temperature down in the refrigerator while it thaws.
  • Replace appliances with energy-efficient models
    When old models wear out, replace them with appliances that have earned the EnergyStar label.
  • Use microwave for most cooking
    A microwave does small and medium cooking jobs more efficiently than an oven or range top.
  • Choose the right pan for the job
    When using the range top, remember to match the size of pan to the similar sized heating element.
  • Use all appliances wisely
    TVs, radios, computers, and vacuum cleaners use relatively small amounts of electricity, but they add up. Don't leave appliances on when they are not in use.
  • Wash only full loads in the dishwasher
  • Wash clothes in cold water
    Use cold temperature detergents and always have a full load. Also, 15 minutes of presoaking and 5 minutes of agitation get clothes cleaner than 15 minutes of agitation.
  • Don't over-dry clothes in the dryer
    Consider using drying clothes racks in the house or resurrect Grandmother's clothesline outside during nice weather.