Energy Efficiency Resolutions

Energy Efficiency Resolutions

Posted on January 7, 2025 by Tracy Vreeland

Resolutions: Whether you keep them, make them and break them, or don't make them at all, most of us still want to do things better in the new year.

Simple adjustments in your home can help you be more energy efficient and could save you money. So, resolutions to reduce your energy use may be the ones you can keep.

• Investing in a smart thermostat, and getting a Santee Cooper rebate for it, may be the best way to become more energy efficient. You can set the temperature around peak times to pre-cool or pre-heat your home. It will also automatically adjust the temperature depending on the amount of people in the room. And, you can control it all from a smart device. A smart thermostat is a smart investment.
• Taking simple steps like opening window coverings during the day to let the sun in during the winter and closing them at night to keep out drafts can really make a big difference.
• Outlet covers are for more than keeping toddlers safe. They can keep outside air out.
• Avoid streaming on game consoles. They use a lot more energy than your average flatscreen TV.
• Unplug appliances you're not using because even when they're not on, they're pulling power. That also goes for chargers. If your home is anything like mine, my son leaves chargers plugged in all over the house.
• Smaller appliances, including toaster ovens and air fryers, use less energy than an oven or stove. Slow cookers are also a good low-energy choice and are a great time saver.
• And your parents were right, turn off the lights when you leave the room, and replace any old incandescent light bulbs or CFLs with LEDs.

Small changes in the way you do things around the house can really add up. I hope these simple ideas will help you keep your resolution to stay energy efficient in 205. Want to be even better? Here are more tips for year-round energy savings.