Many homeowners are committed to reducing their energy use, but recent findings suggest that some common energy-saving habits may not be as impactful as believed. A report by Schneider Electric surveying 13,000 people highlights a significant gap between intention and effective action in home energy efficiency.
Common practices vs. actual impact
The report reveals that while 84% of respondents said energy efficiency is their top home improvement priority, many focus on low-impact actions. For example, 58% of homeowners prioritize turning off lights to save energy, even though lighting accounts for only about 5% of household electricity bills. Similarly, 48% unplug unused chargers — saving about $0.26 per charger each year — an effort with minimal financial benefit.
In contrast, fewer than half of respondents regularly adjust their thermostats to save energy, despite heating and cooling representing the largest portion of energy use in most homes.
What should you do?
To maximize savings and make a real difference to your home’s energy output, consider implementing the following measures and technologies.
Install a smart thermostat: These devices can automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule and preferences, reducing energy waste and lowering costs. Make sure to use the device appropriately, according to manufacturer guidelines, to optimize savings and comfort.
Weatherize your home: Proper insulation and sealing air leaks can reduce heating and cooling costs by an average of 15%. Check for air leaks around windows and exterior doors and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. Other potential areas for energy loss include attics, along basement walls and in crawlspaces. Contact a qualified insulation contractor to ensure that your home is properly insulated.
Get a tune-up. Hire a qualified HVAC professional to inspect and clean your heating and cooling systems once a year. Annual tune-ups help ensure system performance and efficiency, reducing energy costs. They can also help extend equipment lifespan.
Use water efficiently. Water heating is another big energy user in most homes. Install water-efficient showerheads and faucet aerators, which use less water to provide a comfortable flow. Also, take shorter showers of 10 minutes or less and turn off the tap when brushing your teeth. Wait for full loads before running your dishwasher or clothes washer.
Switch to LED lighting: While lighting is a smaller fraction of energy use, switching to LED bulbs can still yield savings. LEDs use at least 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs, making them a wise investment.
Get a home energy audit. An energy audit is a great way to optimize home energy efficiency and comfort. A qualified professional will inspect your home and provide you with a targeted set of recommendations to help lower your energy costs.
While simple habits like turning off lights remain valuable, achieving significant energy savings demands a more comprehensive approach. Understanding and applying the most impactful solutions available enables you to bridge the gap between energy-saving intentions and meaningful results.