Appliances do the heavy lifting in your home every day, but they can also be some of the biggest energy users. The good news? With a few smart habits and maintenance tips, you can reduce your energy consumption, lower your utility bills, and extend the life of your appliances.
At Garner Appliance & Mattress, we work with homeowners every day who want reliable performance and long-term value. Below are our top energy-saving insights to help you get the most out of your appliances without sacrificing convenience or comfort.
1. Keep Your Fridge and Freezer Efficient
Refrigerators run 24/7, so even small changes can make a big difference.
- Check the temperature settings: Keep the fridge at 37-40°F and the freezer at 0°F for ideal efficiency.
- Don’t overcrowd: Airflow matters. Leave space around items so cold air circulates freely.
- Clean the coils: Dusty condenser coils can cause your fridge to work harder. Vacuum them every 6-12 months.
Bonus Tip:
Avoid holding the fridge door open while you decide what you want. Cold air escapes quickly, and the appliance has to work harder to cool back down.
2. Use Your Washer and Dryer Smarter
Laundry appliances are key candidates for energy savings.
- Wash with cold water when possible; it uses far less energy than heating water.
- Wait for a full load before running the washer or dryer.
- Clean the lint trap after every dryer cycle to maintain airflow and reduce drying time.
- Don’t over-dry: Many dryers have moisture sensors; use them! Over-drying wastes energy and wears out clothes faster.
If your appliances have eco modes, use them regularly. They’re designed to get the job done with less energy.
3. Dishwashers Work Best When Full
Contrary to popular belief, dishwashers typically use less water and energy than handwashing if you load them properly.
- Scrape, don’t rinse: Modern dishwashers are designed to handle a little mess.
- Run full loads: Maximize energy efficiency by waiting until it’s full before starting a cycle.
- Use the air-dry setting: Skip heated drying to save on electricity.
Pro Tip:
Run the dishwasher at night during off-peak hours if your utility company offers time-of-use pricing.
4. Cook More Efficiently
Kitchen appliances like ovens and cooktops can use more energy than you realize.
- Keep the oven door closed while cooking. Each time you open it, the temperature can drop 25°F.
- Use the right-size burner for your pots and pans to avoid heat loss.
- Use lids on pans to speed up cooking time and reduce energy use.
5. Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance
Whether it’s cleaning, checking for leaks, or replacing filters, maintenance goes a long way in keeping your appliances efficient.
- Inspect hoses on your washer and dishwasher annually for cracks or leaks.
- Replace filters in your fridge’s water dispenser and your range hood as recommended.
If you're looking to upgrade to more energy-efficient models, we invite you to stop by Garner Appliance & Mattress. Our team is happy to walk you through the latest features, help you compare energy ratings, and find appliances that match your lifestyle and budget.
Visit our showrooms in North Raleigh or Garner, or explore exclusive finds at our warehouse outlet to make a smart investment in your home.
About Garner Appliance & Mattress
Locally owned and trusted since 1977, Garner Appliance & Mattress provides personalized service, expert product knowledge, and competitive prices on today’s leading appliance and mattress brands. With showrooms in North Raleigh and Garner, plus a warehouse outlet, we’re proud to serve our community with dependable delivery, installation, and unmatched customer support. Learn more at garnerstores.com.