The emails always seem to land at the worst possible moment.
“Your bill is ready.”
And lately, seniors across the country are opening those emails with a little more dread than usual. Electricity prices are up, natural gas prices are up, and depending on where you live, winter storms and summer heat waves are squeezing budgets tighter than any of us remember.
But here’s the good news: you have far more control over those bills than you might think. Small changes — the kind that don’t require a contractor, a ladder, or a second mortgage — can shave real money off your monthly statement. Some of the biggest savings come from tweaks you can make in five minutes or less.
Let's get started on our "Top 40" savings ideas...
Everyday Habits That Save Money Immediately
1. Use Off-Peak Electricity (Big Savings for Dishwashers & Dryers)
Many utilities charge more during “peak hours.” Running your dishwasher, washer/dryer, and charging electronics at night can save 20–30% per cycle.
2. Install a Smart Thermostat
EnergyStar smart thermostats cut heating/cooling costs by 8% on average.
Even without one, adjusting by 7–10 degrees for 8 hours/day can save 10% annually.
3. Keep Your HVAC Filters Clean
Replace filters every 3 months. Dirty filters can increase energy use by up to 15%.
4. Use Ceiling Fans First, AC Second
A fan uses about 1% of the energy an AC needs.
• Summer: run counterclockwise
• Winter: clockwise to push warm air down
5. Block Summer Sun
Close blinds or curtains on hot days to cut heat gain by 33%.
Light-colored drapes with white backings work best.
6. Let in Sunlight During Winter
Open those south-facing curtains. Free heat.
7. Unplug “Energy Vampires”
Chargers, TVs, streaming boxes, printers & small appliances suck energy even when off.
Unplug or use a power strip. Saves roughly $100/year.
8. Use Cold Water for Laundry
Water heating = 90% of energy used by washing machines.
Cold-cleaning detergents now do the job just fine.
9. Clean Your Dryer Lint Filter Every Time
Improves airflow and shortens dry cycles.
10. Use a Toaster Oven Instead of a Full Oven
A toaster oven uses 50% less energy than a full-sized oven.
11. Avoid Opening the Oven Door
Every peek drops the temperature by ~25°F, forcing reheating.
12. Keep Your Fridge Full
Cold food helps maintain temp and reduces compressor work.
Set fridge to 37°F and freezer to 0°F.
13. Put Your Devices on Timer Power Strips
Especially TVs, routers, chargers & game systems.
14. Lower Water Heater to 120°F
Safe, comfortable, and can save $400+ per year depending on usage.
15. Use a Water Heater Blanket (If It’s Older)
Reduces heat loss significantly.
16. Take Shorter Showers
Hot water = 18% of the average household energy bill.
17. Install Low-Flow Showerheads
Modern ones feel great and reduce hot water use.
18. Charge Devices at Night (Off-Peak)
Phones, tablets, toothbrushes — it adds up.
19. Turn Off Fans When Not in the Room
Fans cool people, not air.
20. Avoid Preheating the Oven for Most Foods
Many dishes don’t truly require it.
Small Home Improvements That Make a Big Difference
21. Seal Air Leaks Around Windows & Doors
Drafts waste 10–20% of heating/cooling energy.
Inexpensive: caulk, weather-stripping, foam tape.
22. Add Window Film for Summer Heat
DIY kits cost about $10 per window and block sun/UV.
23. Insulate Attics, Basements & Crawlspaces
Weatherization offers some of the highest ROI of any home improvement.
24. Close the Chimney Flue When Not in Use
Open chimneys act like a giant escape vent.
25. Upgrade to LED Lighting Everywhere
LEDs use 75–90% less energy and last 25+ years.
26. Install Smart Power Strips
Automatically cut power to sleeping devices.
27. Use Insulating Paint or Cool Roof Coatings
Lower heat penetration by 21–36%, depending on climate.
28. Plant Shade Trees Strategically
Saves up to 25% on energy bills.
Best positions: East & West windows.
29. Add Weatherized Door Sweeps
Blocks winter drafts effectively.
30. Improve Ventilation in Closed Rooms
Closed interior doors can reduce airflow and force HVAC overwork.
Big Improvements With Big Payoffs
31. Schedule a Home Energy Audit
Finds EXACT waste points.
Costs $200–700 but often subsidized or rebated.
Federal tax credit: 30%, up to $150.
32. Use Rewiring America’s Personal Electrification Planner
Free customized plan for your home’s energy footprint.
33. Upgrade to EnergyStar Appliances
Lifetime savings: ~$11,000, per EPA.
34. Install a Heat Pump or Heat-Pump Water Heater
Federal tax credit: 30% up to $2,000/year.
35. Add Smart HVAC Zoning
Great for seniors who spend more time in certain rooms.
36. Insulate Old Water Pipes
Reduces hot water loss dramatically.
37. Replace Drafty Windows (If You Can Afford It)
Not cheap, but can reduce heat/cooling loss by 25–30%.
38. Replace Old Toilets With Low-Flow Models
Reduces water/sewer costs.
39. Consider Rooftop Solar (If You’ll Be in the Home 7+ Years)
30% federal tax credit through 2025.
Lifetime savings: $28,000–$120,000, depending on state.
40. Explore State-Level Senior Energy Rebates
Many offer:
• Free weatherization
• Discounted energy audits
• Rate-reduction programs
• Emergency heating/cooling bill help
