Did you know that Earth Hour will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026? For one hour, beginning at 8:30 p.m. local time in each time zone, everyone is encouraged to turn off nonessential lights and appliances.
How to reduce energy consumption all year
But what can you do after Earth Hour is over? Reducing energy use in your home or workplace supports climate goals and lowers utility bills.
Start with everyday behaviors
These simple but effective steps help conserve energy and can also lower your energy bills:
- Turn off lights and unused devices. It’s more efficient to switch off lights when leaving a room than to leave them on. The brief energy spike when turning lights on is negligible compared to the energy wasted if they are left on for an extended time.
- Unplug idle electronics. Devices like chargers, TVs, and computers often draw phantom power even when turned off. Use smart power strips or unplug devices to avoid this waste.
- Use appliances efficiently. Run dishwashers, washers, and dryers only when fully loaded. Wash clothes in cold water when possible and consider air-drying laundry to avoid heavy energy use from dryers.
Invest in energy efficient lighting and appliances
- Switch to LED light bulbs. Replace common incandescent bulbs with ENERGY STAR certified LEDs; they use up to 90 percent less electricity and last much longer, saving energy and replacement costs over time.
- Upgrade to ENERGY STAR appliances. As you replace refrigerators, dishwashers, HVAC systems, or other major appliances, choose products with the ENERGY STAR label. They consume significantly less energy than standard models, reducing both bills and emissions. Federal tax credits and rebates may offset a portion of upgrade costs, making them more affordable.
Improve insulation, sealing, and climate control
- Seal air leaks and add insulation. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps around windows and doors. Adding insulation in attics, crawl spaces, or walls helps maintain temperature, reducing heating and cooling loads.
- Maintain HVAC systems. Regularly replace air filters and schedule annual maintenance for furnaces or air conditioners. A well-maintained system runs more efficiently and lasts longer, which lowers energy consumption and saves you money.
- Use smart thermostat settings. Lowering or raising thermostat settings by 7 to 10 degrees during unoccupied periods can significantly reduce annual heating and cooling costs.
Adopting a mix of simple daily habits, thoughtful appliance choices, and strategic upgrades can help homes and businesses reduce their energy footprint. A few easy steps this Earth Hour, along with a commitment to long-term improvements, will help achieve lower energy costs, greater climate resilience, and a healthier environment.
Save energy and money this Earth Hour with Michigan Saves
If you live in Michigan and are ready to invest in long-term energy efficient improvements, you can access low interest rate financing for your project through Michigan Saves. We can help you transform your home, business, or other commercial property into a comfortable and efficient space with a wide variety of energy upgrades, such as energy efficient windows, air sealing, and HVAC systems. Find an authorized Michigan contractor in your area to start saving with us today!
