A Parent’s Guide to Energy Savings During the School Year
As backpacks come out of the closet and calendars fill with classes, homework, sports, and activities, the back-to-school season is all about getting back into a routine. It’s also the perfect time to build a few energy-saving habits into your family’s daily schedule.
These small changes can help keep your home comfortable while making the most of your energy usage throughout the school year.
Start the Day Smart
Busy mornings often mean lights left on, electronics plugged in, and the thermostat working harder than it needs to.
Before everyone heads out the door:
Turn off lights in empty rooms.
Double-check that TVs and gaming systems are powered down.
Set your thermostat a few degrees higher if no one will be home.
Make sure doors and windows are fully closed to keep conditioned air inside.
Creating a quick “last one out” checklist can help make these habits second nature.
Create an Energy-Smart Homework Station
Homework often means laptops, tablets, chargers, and desk lamps are all running at once. Designate one well-lit area for studying to avoid lighting multiple rooms.
Choose LED desk lamps when possible, unplug chargers once devices are fully charged, and power down electronics when homework is finished.
Tackle Laundry Efficiently
School clothes, sports uniforms, and backpacks can quickly add up to extra loads of laundry.
Help reduce energy use by:
Washing full loads whenever possible.
Using cold water for most loads.
Cleaning the dryer’s lint filter after every cycle.
Air drying items when the weather allows.
Keep Up with Your HVAC
Your heating and cooling system works hard during late summer and early fall.
Take a few minutes each month to check your air filter. A clean filter improves airflow and helps your system operate more efficiently while keeping your family comfortable.
Get the Whole Family Involved
Energy savings work best when everyone participates.
Challenge your family to:
Turn off lights when leaving a room.
Keep refrigerator doors closed.
Limit unnecessary screen time when devices aren’t in use.
Unplug chargers and electronics that aren’t being used.
Even younger children can help build habits that make a difference.
Small Habits, Big Savings
The school year brings enough to think about without worrying about wasted energy. By adding a few simple habits to your family’s daily routine, you can help improve efficiency, reduce unnecessary energy usage, and create a home that’s ready for every busy school day.
