Simple Energy Saving Solutions for Every Household

Everyone loves saving money! There are several things you could be doing every week to save on your energy bills this year. With these energy saving tips and tricks from Ameren Illinois, you’ll be able to reduce your energy use and have a bit more money in your pocket after your bills are paid.


Don’t Overdry Your Clothes

Cloth with colorful pins at the yard save energy

Be sure to use the auto-dry setting on your dryer so it doesn’t continue to run after your clothes are fully dry. For even more energy savings, dry your clothes in back-to-back loads to take advantage of the heat still in the dryer from your previous load. When the weather’s nice, consider hanging your clothes outside to let the sun do the drying.

Not only does this save energy but it also helps your clothes last longer. If the sun isn’t out, set up a drying rack inside. Don’t forget the clothespins!

Set Your Water Heater TemperatureClose-up of man hands setting the temperature of water in Electric Boiler

Do you know the temperature your water heater is set on? To find it, measure the temperature of your hot water using a thermometer at the tap farthest from the water heater. Turning your water temperature down to 120 degrees can help you save energy without giving up those warm, relaxing showers.

Circulate Air With Ceiling Fans
When using your air conditioning, a ceiling fan lets you raise the thermostat about four degrees while still providing the same level of comfort. But be sure to turn those fans off when you leave the room — fans cool people, not rooms.

Check Your HVAC Filter

Check your air filter every month, especially those months when you use your HVAC system the most. A dirty filter slows the airflow and makes the system work harder to keep your home warm or cool. Don’t forget to change your furnace filters every month or two to keep your HVAC equipment operating efficiently!


Find all the supplies you need for your energy savings project at your local Rural King.

For more energy-saving tips and projects, visit the Ameren Illinois Energy Savings Center.