How to Make Your Appliances More Energy Efficient

If your energy bills have been creeping up, your appliances may be part of the reason. From refrigerators that run 24/7 to washers and dryers used multiple times a week, appliances account for a significant portion of your home’s electricity usage.

Summary (Key Takeaways)

• Start with settings + maintenance (fridge 37–40°F, freezer 0°F; clean coils/vents; full but not overstuffed loads).

• Use eco cycles, sensor drying, and off‑peak hours for laundry and dishwashers.

• Upgrade older, high‑use units (often 12–15+ years old) to ENERGY STAR®; savings can offset the upfront cost.

• If an appliance needs frequent repairs or can’t hold temp, replacement is likely more cost‑effective.

The good news? You don’t always need to replace everything to see savings. With a few smart adjustments, and guidance from the experts at DeWaard & Bode, you can make your appliances more energy efficient and lower your monthly utility costs in Bellingham, Burlington, and throughout Northwest Washington.

 

 

Why Energy Efficiency Matters in Washington State

In areas like Bellingham and Burlington, where homes experience cool, damp winters and mild summers, appliances often work harder than you realize. Refrigerators cycle more frequently, dryers run longer, and dishwashers handle heavier loads during indoor months.

Improving appliance efficiency means:

• Lower monthly energy bills

• Reduced environmental impact

• Extended appliance lifespan

• Better overall home performance

Whether you’re upgrading or optimizing what you already own, small changes can make a noticeable difference.

 

1. Upgrade to ENERGY STAR® Appliances

One of the fastest ways to improve efficiency is upgrading older appliances. Models made 10-15 years ago use significantly more energy than today’s standards.

Modern appliances are designed to:

• Use less water

• Operate with optimized motors

• Feature eco-friendly cycles

• Reduce standby power consumption

If your refrigerator, washer, or dishwasher is over a decade old, upgrading could reduce energy use by 10-40% depending on the category.

The appliance specialists at DeWaard & Bode can help you compare long-term operating costs before you buy.

 

2. Use Appliances at Off-Peak Hours

Many utility companies in Washington offer time-of-use pricing. Running major appliances during off-peak hours, typically evenings or weekends, can lower costs.

Appliances to shift when possible:

• Washers

• Dryers

• Dishwashers

Using delay-start settings helps you take advantage of lower rates without disrupting your schedule.

 

3. Optimize Refrigerator Efficiency

Your refrigerator runs continuously, making it one of the biggest energy users in your home.

Simple energy-saving refrigerator tips:

• Set temperature to 37-40°F (fridge) and 0°F (freezer)

• Keep it ¾ full (thermal mass improves efficiency)

• Clean condenser coils twice a year

• Replace worn door seals

• Avoid placing near ovens or direct sunlight

If your fridge struggles to maintain temperature, it may be time to consider a newer energy-efficient model.

 

4. Wash Smarter, Not Harder

Laundry appliances use both electricity and water. Improving efficiency here can have a big impact.

Washer Tips:

• Wash in cold water whenever possible

• Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent if applicable

• Run full loads instead of multiple small loads

• Choose high-spin settings to reduce dryer time

Dryer Tips:

• Clean lint filter after every load

• Use moisture-sensor drying instead of timed cycles

• Separate heavy and lightweight fabrics

• Ensure proper venting and annual vent cleaning

Energy-efficient dryers can significantly reduce run time, especially important during damp Northwest winters.

 

5. Run Dishwashers More Efficiently

Modern dishwashers are often more efficient than hand washing, especially when used correctly.

Best practices:

• Scrape (don’t rinse) dishes

• Run full loads

• Use eco or energy-saving cycles

• Let dishes air dry when possible

 

 

6. Improve Cooking Appliance Efficiency

Cooking appliances can also impact energy consumption.

Energy-saving cooking tips:

• Match pot size to burner size

• Use lids to reduce cooking time

• Avoid opening oven doors frequently

• Use convection mode for faster cooking

If you’re considering an upgrade, explore modern cooking appliances designed for better heat distribution and lower energy waste.

 

7. Maintain Appliances Regularly

Maintenance is one of the most overlooked energy-saving strategies.

Annual maintenance checklist:

• Clean refrigerator coils

• Inspect washer hoses

• Check dryer venting

• Clean dishwasher filters

• Verify oven door seals

Routine maintenance keeps appliances running efficiently and extends their lifespan, saving you money long-term.

 

8. Consider Smart Appliances

Smart appliances help monitor usage and optimize performance.

Benefits include:

• Energy usage tracking

• Remote monitoring

• Automatic efficiency adjustments

• Maintenance alerts

The experts at DeWaard & Bode can explain which smart features are practical for your home and budget, not just flashy add-ons.

 

When Is It Time to Replace Instead of Repair?

If your appliance:

• Is over 12-15 years old

• Requires frequent repairs

• Shows declining performance

• Causes noticeable bill increases

Replacement may be more cost-effective than continued repairs.

Homeowners in Bellingham and Burlington often find that upgrading to energy-efficient models provides noticeable savings within a few years.

 

 

Why Shop Energy-Efficient Appliances at DeWaard & Bode?

As a trusted local appliance retailer serving Bellingham and Burlington, WA, DeWaard & Bode offers:

• Expert guidance from trained appliance specialists

• Carefully selected, high-efficiency models

• Local delivery and professional installation

• Personalized recommendations based on your household size and usage

Our team focuses on long-term value, not just the lowest sticker price. Contact us or visit one of our appliance stores in Bellingham or Burlington, Washington, to speak with appliance experts to find the right energy-efficient upgrade for your home.

Related readings from our blog:

• The Most Reliable Refrigerators for Your Kitchen

• What to Consider When Choosing a Wall Oven

• Best Washer and Dryer Features for Large Families

 

FAQs: How to Make Your Appliances More Energy Efficient

Do energy-efficient appliances really save money?

Yes. While upfront costs may be slightly higher, energy-efficient appliances reduce electricity and water usage, leading to long-term savings on utility bills.

What appliance uses the most electricity?

Typically, refrigerators, dryers, and water heaters use the most energy in a home. Refrigerators run continuously, making efficiency especially important.

Is it worth replacing a 10-year-old appliance?

In many cases, yes. Modern appliances use significantly less energy and water compared to models made 10-15 years ago.

How often should I maintain my appliances?

Basic cleaning and inspection should be done every 6-12 months to maintain optimal performance and efficiency.