What’s Your Energy Efficiency IQ?

1. How much does the average U.S. household spend on electric bills per year?

• $500
• $1,200
• $2,000
• $4,200

Correct!Incorrect! According to a recent article, “Why Energy Efficiency Matters,” by the U.S. Department of Energy, the average American spends $2,000 on energy bills each year. Explore our TakeCharge programs to learn ways to save!

2. On average, which typical household appliance costs the most to operate per year?

• Clothes Washer
• Refrigerator
• Thermostat (AC and Heat)
• Lights

Correct!Incorrect! On average, a home’s thermostat costs almost half of a typical household’s total energy bill per year at about $900 out of the $2,000 total average cost. Upgrades like installing a smart thermostat can help you save!

3. When compared to traditional light bulbs, how many times longer do LED light bulbs last?

• 5x
• 10x
• 20x
• 25x

Correct!Incorrect! According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED light bulbs last up to 25 times longer than traditional bulbs. The USDOE predicts that LED bulbs could save nearly $3 billion per year in energy costs across the United States.

4. What is a natural way to warm your home on cooler days throughout the year?

• Use your oven to help heat your home.
• Open your curtains or blinds to let the sunshine in.
• Turn on your fan at a high speed.
• Use a space heater.

Correct!Incorrect! The sun is naturally warming and will help warm your home, allowing you to reduce your thermostat by a few degrees. To help even more, consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for your home.

5. What is “vampire energy” and why is it important?

• It is energy used only during the nighttime hours.
• It is energy use that cannot be seen, heard or felt.
• It is energy used by electronics, appliances and other products when they are not in use.
• Electronics, appliances and other products that cannot be used in or exposed to the sun.

Correct!Incorrect! Vampire energy costs $165 per year for the average U.S. household, according to the National Resources Defense Council. To help reduce energy use and costs, be sure to unplug these items when you can!

6. What is NOT an energy efficient method to reducing your home’s energy use and electricity costs?

• Shorter showers
• Washing clothes in cold water
• Switching to LED lighting
• Lowering your refrigerator temperature

Correct!Incorrect! Your refrigerator requires more energy the colder it is. A consistent temperature of 40°F or slightly below reduces energy usage, thus saving you money!