Rochester, N.Y. -- Holiday lights, a toilet, computer, dryer, and the coils under your refrigerator. What do they all have in common?
Consumer Reports finds that changing to the ways we use each one--could save us money.
People call John Register when their appliances don't work. A fixed appliance can not only spare the cost of buying new, but Register says it can save you money every month.
1. A clean refrigerator will operate at 20% less cost just by cleaning the condenser. Once a year -- twice if you have a pet -- remove the grill and clean the coils with an appliance brush.
2. You can also save by keeping the refrigerator and freezer full. The more you keep in your fridge, the more efficient it becomes.
3. Skip pre-rinsing your dishes. Tests show it can save 6,500 gallons of water each year.
4. Save an estimated $60 a year by opting for the cold water cycle in your dishwasher.
5. Clean or replace your furnace filters monthly. Energy use jumps when filters are clogged.
6. You can save about 5 percent on energy bills by lowering the temperature of your water heater by five degrees.
7. Take advantage of the sun. Open the blinds to heat the house by day, and close them as the sun fades.
8. Put your PC to sleep. Consumer Reports says using the standby feature can save $25-75 each year.
9. Clean your dryer, the vents, and lint filter every two years -- especially if you use dryer sheets. You save 50 percent of your operating costs by keeping the vent clear.
10. Don't overload the dryer. It uses more energy.
11. Switch your holiday lights to LED. They can save up to $11 per season and last longer.
12. If you are looking to save water, installing a high-efficiency shower head can save as much as 50 percent a year.
13. Upgrading to a low-flow toilet can save 4,000 gallons of water. Less water and money down the drain means more money in your pocket.
