Austin’s green scene isn’t just about bikes, solar panels, and recycling bins—it’s about how you power your home, too. Did you know that home appliances account for nearly 30% of residential energy consumption in the U.S.? According to the U.S. Department of Energy, refrigerators, water heaters, and clothes dryers are among the top energy consumers in a typical home.
Cutting wasteful energy use isn’t just good for the planet—it’s a solid win for your wallet. Whether you’re a die-hard eco-warrior or just looking to trim your energy bill, these tips will help you keep things cool, clean, and efficient without sacrificing comfort.
1. Optimize Your Fridge and Freezer Settings
Your fridge runs 24/7, but that doesn’t mean it should guzzle power like a food-obsessed robot. Keep your refrigerator set at 37-40°F and your freezer at 0°F for optimal efficiency. Overstuffing your fridge blocks airflow and makes it work harder, so give your groceries some breathing room. Conversely, a fuller freezer retains cold better—just don’t overdo it.
An ENERGY STAR®-certified refrigerator uses about 9% less energy than standard models. That might not sound like much, but considering that the average fridge runs for a decade or more, the savings add up. A well-maintained fridge can last 15 years, so regular maintenance isn’t just about performance—it’s about long-term savings.
If you own a high-end fridge from brands like Bosch, regular maintenance is key to maintaining efficiency. And if your fridge is acting up, don’t let it waste energy. Our Bosch appliance repair services can help you get it back to peak performance.
2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Cooking Appliances
Cooking uses more energy than you might think, especially if you’re using older appliances. Induction cooktops heat faster and more efficiently than traditional electric stoves, while convection ovens cook food more evenly, reducing cook times. When using your oven, avoid preheating for long periods and try batch-cooking meals to save energy.
Pro tip from our repair techs: A dirty oven with food buildup can reduce efficiency. If your oven takes noticeably longer to preheat, it may need a deep clean or a professional calibration.
3. Use Your Dishwasher Wisely
Contrary to popular belief, using a dishwasher is more energy-efficient than washing dishes by hand—provided you use it correctly. An ENERGY STAR®-certified dishwasher can save up to 3,870 gallons of water over its lifetime. Always run full loads, skip the heated drying cycle, and use the eco or energy-saving mode if available.
Considering a new dishwasher? Our dishwasher hookup service makes the process seamless, so you can start saving water and energy without the hassle.
4. Unplug and Power Down
Appliances and electronics continue to draw power even when turned off—this “phantom load” can account for up to 10% of your energy bill, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Unplug devices when not in use, or use smart power strips that cut power to idle electronics. This simple habit reduces both energy consumption and wear on your devices.
Want an easy fix? Smart plugs and power strips can automate shutoffs, so you don’t have to think about it. Some even let you track energy usage in real-time, so you can spot energy hogs.
5. Dry Laundry the Smart Way
Dryers are notorious energy hogs, but with a few adjustments, you can reduce their impact. Use dryer balls to speed up drying time, clean the lint filter regularly, and dry similar fabrics together. Better yet, skip the dryer when possible—Austin’s sunny weather is perfect for line-drying clothes.
But if you prefer the convenience of a dryer, make sure it’s functioning efficiently. For high-performance models like Miele, our Miele appliance repair services can help keep it running at its best.
6. Leverage Smart Technology
Smart appliances aren’t just about convenience—they’re designed to maximize efficiency. Homes with smart appliances can reduce energy waste by up to 20%, according to a study by the Consumer Technology Association.
Refrigerators with adaptive cooling, dishwashers with soil sensors, and ovens with precision cooking modes all use energy more efficiently. Connect them to a smart home system to monitor energy use, schedule off-peak operation, and receive maintenance alerts before issues arise.
Even if your appliances aren’t “smart,” you can still boost efficiency by using them strategically. Run energy-intensive appliances like dishwashers and dryers during off-peak hours, typically late at night or early in the morning.
7. Switch to Propane for Better Efficiency
If you use a gas stove, water heater, or dryer, switching to propane can help you reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. Propane appliances can operate at 90% efficiency or higher, compared to about 65% for older gas models. Propane burns cleaner than natural gas and is often more cost-effective. Plus, modern propane appliances are designed for high efficiency and performance.
Interested in making the switch? Our propane conversion service can help you get started, reducing both your carbon footprint and energy costs.
8. Maintain Appliances for Maximum Efficiency
Even the most energy-efficient appliances lose their edge without proper maintenance. Skipping maintenance can lead to a 25% increase in energy consumption, according to ENERGY STAR®.
Clean refrigerator coils, unclog dishwasher filters, and descale washing machines regularly. If an appliance starts acting up, don’t wait—malfunctions often cause energy waste. Professional repairs can restore efficiency and extend the life of your appliances, saving you money in the long run.
Savings Up, Footprint Down
Living green in Austin doesn’t mean sacrificing modern comforts—it’s about using technology smarter. The average U.S. household spends about $2,000 per year on energy, but simple efficiency upgrades can reduce costs by 15-30%. By optimizing appliance use, embracing energy-efficient models, and maintaining your equipment, you can reduce your energy consumption without breaking a sweat.
Ready to make your home more energy-efficient? Start with these tips and see how easy it is to save energy—and money—without sacrificing performance.
