Consider these 10 energy-saving tips to cut your work-at-home electric use: 

1. Turn lights off and open the shades in your work space whenever you can to let the sun naturally warm the room and provide lighting.

2. When your phone or smart tablet is fully charged, unplug it. Many chargers use energy even when they aren’t connected to a device.

3. Using sleep mode or power management settings on your computer, laptop or smart TV can save up to $50 a year.

4. Complete your  HomeCheck® Online assessment to see where your home or apartment uses the most energy, then make further adjustments to save anywhere you can.

5. Install ENERGY STAR® lighting and appliances in your home. ENERGY STAR light bulbs use 75% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than standard incandescent bulbs. 

6. Setting a programmable thermostat up or down by a few degrees can result in BIG savings. Iowa and Ilinois customers can purchase a smart thermostat for up to $100 off through MidAmerican Energy marketplace. Customers can also submit a rebate application if purchasing one elsewhere.

7. Keep your air registers clear from rugs, furniture or toys.

8. Check your HVAC system air filters and replace them if they are dirty. Clean filters use less energy and reduce the strain on your system.

9. Resist the urge to open the oven to check on your chocolate chip cookies between meetings – the temperature will be reduced up to 25 degrees, making the oven work harder and use more energy.

10. Scrape dishes instead of rinsing and be sure your dishwasher is full but not overloaded.

    Find energy efficiency discounts and rebates for your home!