5 Energy Saving Tips for Working at Home

Like many around the world, the EFI team is working from their home offices to do their part in preventing the spread of COVID-19. There are a lot of energy-efficient perks to working from home that require little to no effort. For example, the world’s shortest commute means fewer emissions from motor vehicles! Not to mention, empty offices mean there is a huge energy savings for many businesses.

At home, however, many will see an increase in energy usage due to being inside more than usual.  The dishwasher never seems to remain empty for longer than a brief moment, the thermostat kicks on more often to keep you comfortable while logged in, and electricity is in overdrive to power all the electronics necessary to stay in touch with colleagues, teachers, and – most importantly – family and friends.

If you’re seeing a spike in your utility bills during your time working remotely, consider some of these energy-saving tips for working at home.

Let Your Thermostat Save for You
With a smart thermostat, you don’t have to worry about crazy energy spikes as you adjust your heating/cooling settings more than usual. Smart Thermostats have the ability to learn your routine and provide you with useful data to help you save energy and money. On a conference call but feel a chill? No problem! Smart Thermostats can also be adjusted from wherever you are in the house by using the app. Utilities or efficiency programs in your area may offer rebates or discounts on ENERGY STAR certified smart thermostats. To find out if you qualify, find your utility provider here and get started!

Take Advantage of Natural Light
Most remote workers are still working during the daytime hours. If so, take advantage of nature’s brightest lightbulb – the sun! Choose to work in a room with a lot of natural light. Then open up the blinds, pull back the curtains, and let that light in!

Go LED
For those who work in the evening hours (or during stormier days), make the change to LED bulbs! Lighting an average home can use more energy than your washing machine, refrigerator, and dishwasher combined. ENERGY STAR certified light bulbs use up to 90% less energy than standard bulbs and can save you about $80 in energy costs. Talk about an easy way to gain a big win while working in your slippers.

Plug In an Advanced Power Strip
Do you keep all your devices plugged in despite them not being in use? They may still be using power unknowingly, which is referred to as Vampire Power, and can be causing spikes on your utility bill! If unplugging completely isn’t an option, try an Advanced Power Strip. Stream your new favorite show or set up your home office using an APS to ensure you’re saving power while actively using your devices, but also when you’re not.

Wash Your Hands Efficiently
While it’s extremely important to wash our hands routinely right now, it’s also important to consider the extra water being used (and wasted) while the faucet is turned on. You can save water easily just by attaching an aerator to the faucets in your home. An aerator adds air to the water flow but provides the same flow and pressure. It’s an easy, affordable, and foolproof way to keep hands clean using less water. Bye-bye, germs and wasted water!