Even when everything seems to be running smoothly, your home might be using more electricity than it needs to. The tricky part? Energy waste isn’t always obvious. From small habits to outdated equipment, it often goes unnoticed, until you see the bill.
At NextVolt Energy, we believe staying on top of your energy use shouldn’t be difficult. That’s why we’ve pulled together this guide to help you spot where energy waste may be hiding in your home, and what you can do about it.
Are Your Old Appliances Doing Overtime?
Appliances that are 10–15 years old may still work, but they likely use more electricity than newer, energy-efficient models.
Where to look:
- Refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, and dryers
- Units with outdated motors or no energy certifications
What to do:
- Check for ENERGY STAR® ratings when upgrading
- If replacement isn’t an option yet, unplug spare or rarely used appliances (like that second fridge in the garage)
Air Leaks That Let Comfort Slip Away
Drafty windows and doors are a major source of energy loss. When outdoor air gets in and indoor air escapes, your heating and cooling system has to work harder.
Where to look:
- Around windows and doorframes
- Attics, basements, or any space where insulation is thin or missing
What to do:
- Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps
- Add or replace insulation where needed
- Install thermal curtains to help keep temperatures steady
Lights Left On in Empty Rooms
This one’s simple but common. Lighting makes up a good part of your monthly energy use, especially if lights stay on when no one’s around.
Where to look:
- Bedrooms, bathrooms, hallways, garages
- Outdoor lights running all night
What to do:
- Get in the habit of flipping switches off as you leave a room
- Use motion-sensor lights for areas like garages and outdoor spaces
- Switch to LED bulbs for better efficiency with longer life
Phantom Power from Idle Electronics
Even when they’re turned off, devices like TVs, cable boxes, game consoles, and chargers continue to draw small amounts of electricity. This is called standby or “phantom” load.
Where to look:
- Entertainment centers
- Home offices
- Kitchen counters (think coffee makers or microwaves with clocks)
What to do:
- Unplug devices you rarely use
- Plug several items into a power strip and turn it off when not in use
- Look for smart plugs that let you control devices from your phone
HVAC Filters That Never Get Changed
When air filters clog with dust and debris, your system works harder to heat or cool your home. That’s extra energy—and cost—you could avoid.
Where to look:
- Central air systems
- Window units and mini-splits
What to do:
- Check and replace filters every 1–3 months
- Keep vents clear of furniture and buildup
Water Heater Working Too Hard
Most water heaters are set to a default temperature that’s higher than necessary. If yours is cranked up past 120°F, it’s likely wasting energy every day.
Where to look:
- Garage, utility closet, or basement
What to do:
- Turn the temperature down to 120°F
- Wrap older water heater tanks in an insulating blanket
- Fix dripping hot water taps to avoid waste
Running Half-Loads in the Dishwasher or Washer
It might be tempting to run a small load of dishes or laundry “just to get it over with,” but that often means using full cycles of water and electricity for only partial results.
Where to look:
- Kitchen
- Laundry room
What to do:
- Wait until you have a full load
- Use eco or short cycles when available
- Air dry dishes or line-dry clothes when possible
Ignoring Your Thermostat Settings
Heating and cooling account for a big chunk of energy use—and even small thermostat adjustments can lead to savings.
Where to look:
- Your thermostat’s daily schedule or settings
What to do:
- Lower the heat a few degrees at night or when you’re not home
- Raise the AC setting slightly in warmer months
- Use a programmable or smart thermostat to stay consistent
Energy waste can creep in from habits, outdated equipment, or simply not knowing where to look. The good news? Once you spot the problem areas, the fixes are usually simple.At NextVolt Energy, we’re here to help you take control of your electricity use with straightforward plans and clear advice. Use this list as a starting point, and keep an eye on your usage—it’s one of the easiest ways to get more from your home while using less.