As kids head back to school and family routines shift, August is a great time to make small changes at home that can lead to real energy savings. With mornings starting earlier and the house often empty during the day, now is the perfect opportunity to adjust your habits and your home’s energy use.

Here are a few easy ways to save energy (and money) as the school year kicks off:

1. Unplug Unused Devices

Laptops, gaming consoles, printers, and chargers can still use energy when plugged in—even if they’re turned off.

• Use power strips for easy shut-off.
• Encourage kids to unplug devices before leaving for school.

2. Use Lighting Timers or Smart Bulbs

No need to leave lights on all day:

• Replace old bulbs with LED options to use up to 75% less energy.
• Smart lighting systems allow you to schedule or control lights from your phone.

3. Prep Lunches and Snacks Efficiently

Frequent fridge use during busy mornings and after-school snack time adds up.

• Keep snacks and lunch items grouped together to reduce how long the fridge is open.
• Avoid placing hot food directly in the fridge, let it cool first to ease the workload on your appliance.

4. Streamline Laundry

With more structured routines, be strategic about household chores:

• Run full loads in the washer and dishwasher.
• Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Back-to-school season is busy, but it’s also a great time to hit the reset button on your home’s energy habits. Making a few mindful adjustments can lead to long-term savings on your electric bill, and it’s a great way to teach kids the importance of energy responsibility.

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