Fall is the perfect time to reset routines. As we shift from long summer days, to cooler, darker months, small changes can make your electricity and natural gas go further. These simple, low-cost tips will keep your home comfortable and energy efficient all season long.

When the clocks turn back on the first Sunday in November, use it as a reminder to do a quick home check. Update timers on lights and thermostats to match shorter daylight hours and colder weather. These small adjustments can reduce wasted energy. It’s also a great time to check smoke and CO2 detectors.

As you rake leaves and tidy the yard, make sure vents and outdoor units are free from debris. If you have an outdoor air conditioning unit, clear around it before covering it for winter. Good airflow helps your equipment run more efficiently and last longer. 

Before the cold sets in, check your furnace filter. Replace it or clean it monthly to avoid making your system work harder than it needs. For peace of mind, consider a yearly furnace inspection. Renters should confirm with their landlord who’s responsible for maintenance to prevent issues down the road.  

Fall is also often back to a regular routines with more time spent working or studying at home. Take a scan of your home office for energy efficiency opportunities. Use a power bar for your office equipment and switch it off when not in use. Make sure the power bar is easy to access. Unplug devices you don’t use often, like your printer, to cut down on phantom power.

Are you a two-refrigerator household? Be mindful of that second fridge. If it is older, it is likely less energy efficient. First, see of you can maximize pace in your main fridge. It runs more efficiently when it’s full. If you need the second fridge for the holidays, plug it in only when necessary and keep it off the rest of the season.