At the Alliance, we’re gearing up for one of our favorite days of the year: Energy Efficiency Day on October 1!

This annual celebration is all about recognizing the power of efficiency to lower energy costs, cut emissions, and create jobs. Wondering how to take part? We’ve rounded up some practical tips you can use to save energy on #EEDay2025 and every day:

Quick Everyday Actions

1. Let nature do the work

With cooler fall temperatures and shorter days ahead, take advantage of open windows and natural light. Instead of cranking the A/C, enjoy the fresh air. And when the sun hits golden hour, position yourself near a window to finish your workday without flipping on the lights. You’ll save energy and boost your mood with sunlight and fresh air.

2. Turn down the heat

Water heating accounts for nearly 20% of home energy use. Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible (your wardrobe will thank you) and lower your water heater setting to 120°F. This simple adjustment that can save up to 5% on heating costs for every 10 degrees lowered.

3. Unplug and power down

Even when turned off, many devices still use power. Unplug chargers, laptops, TVs, and small appliances when not in use to avoid “phantom” energy drain. Making it a habit to unplug can save the average household $100–200 per year while reducing unnecessary emissions.

Low-Cost Upgrades

4. Switch to LEDs

An easy upgrade with a big payoff: LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy and last 35–50 times longer than incandescent bulbs. Over their lifetime, they can cost about five times less, making them a smart investment for renters and homeowners alike.

5. Smarter power strips = smarter savings

“Vampire loads”—the energy electronics use when they’re in standby mode—can quietly drain your wallet. A smart power strip detects when devices aren’t in use and cuts the power automatically. At around $15, it’s a low-cost, high-reward efficiency tool.

6. Maintain your HVAC system

Regular upkeep helps heating and cooling systems run efficiently. Replace air filters every 1–3 months, seal ducts, and schedule annual checkups. According to the Department of Energy, proper HVAC maintenance can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 15%.

Bigger Investments for Long-Term Savings

7. Schedule an energy audit

A home energy audit can pinpoint the best upgrades for your space, whether that’s adding insulation, sealing leaks, or installing a smart thermostat. Think of it as a roadmap for long-term comfort and savings.

8. Insulate for the season

Heating losses from poor insulation, drafty doors, or single-pane windows can add up quickly. According to ENERGY STAR, sealing air leaks and adding insulation can save up to 10% annually on energy bills—and upgrading windows could save as much as $465 a year.

9. Explore incentives and assistance

Many federal energy-efficiency tax incentives are available for a limited time, so it’s important to act quickly. For example, the 25C Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit requires upgrades like insulation, efficient windows, or HVAC systems to be fully placed in service by December 31, 2025 in order to qualify. If you’re planning improvements, don’t wait—confirm your equipment meets efficiency standards, schedule installers early, and make sure the work is completed before the deadline so you can capture the savings before they lapse. Learn more about tax credit deadlines in our recent blog.

Energy efficiency is a win-win. It saves money, reduces emissions, and makes our homes and businesses more resilient. Whether it’s something simple like swapping a lightbulb or bigger steps like upgrading insulation, every action adds up to meaningful savings for families and communities.

This Energy Efficiency Day, we encourage you to take stock of how you use energy, try out one of these tips, and explore new ways to make efficiency part of your daily routine. Together, these small actions help create cleaner air, stronger energy security, and a more affordable future for everyone.

We’d love to know how you’re celebrating! Share your ideas and energy-saving wins with us at @ToSaveEnergy using #EEDay2025.