Energy Saving Tips for Kids
We use energy in so many ways in our daily lives. Electricity allows us to have lights so we can see in the dark. It lets us cook our food quickly. And it keeps us entertained with our games, televisions and phones.
We use electricity everywhere we go!
But not everything uses the same amount of energy.
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. It’s the system that keeps your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer – and it uses a lot of energy!
Charging your phone uses a lot less energy.
See how common household appliances use different amounts of energy.
Why Saving Energy Matters
Every time you turn on a light or watch TV, you’re using electricity. And that electricity costs money. If we waste electricity, it’s like tossing money into the trash.
Saving Energy = Saving Money
When we use less energy, our families pay smaller electric bills. When we use less energy at school, our schools can use the money on books, sports or fun activities.
Saving Energy = More Reliable Energy
Right now, our region is growing. More and more people are moving in. And they all need energy! It takes a lot of time and money to build new power plants. Saving energy can help make sure everyone has the energy they need while TVA and local power companies work together to build new power plants.
Saving Energy = Healthy Environment
Making electricity impacts the environment. If we use less energy, we won’t need as many power plants. That helps protect nature and animals and keeps the air cleaner.
How You Can Save Energy
You can be an energy hero!
Simple actions can have a big impact on energy use. If everyone saves a little, then we all save a LOT!
Fun Fact = Every 1-degree change can save 1% to 3% on your home’s heating and cooling costs!
TVA EnergyRight programs can help your family save even more energy and money!
Ask your family to take a free Home Energy Assessment and get a list of energy-saving upgrades for your home.
- Turn it off — make sure lights and electronics are turned off when you aren’t using them.
- Fill it up — wait to run the dishwasher, clothes washer or dryer until you have a full load. That means you run these big machines a lot less.
- Cold splash — you can change your dishwasher and clothes washer to use cold water instead of hot water.
- Dry your clothes — use a lower heat setting or ask your parents to hang clothes outside on sunny days.
- Cooking smart — using small appliances like a microwave or air fryers saves energy when you don’t need your big oven.
- Timing is everything — try not to use big appliances during the hottest or coldest parts of the day. That helps reduce stress on the power grid.
- Let the sunshine in — open the curtains or blinds on sunny winter days.
- Keep the heat out — close the curtains and blinds on hot summer days.
- Bathing tips — save hot water by taking short showers instead of baths.
- Close doors — make sure doors and windows are closed when the air conditioner or heater is working.
- Play low-tech — you can have fun and play without using electronics. What are ways you can play without using electricity?
- Change the temperature — ask your parents to set the thermostat a few degrees lower on cold days (or higher on hot days).
Can you spot ways to save electricity around your home?
Pick a room, then tap the glowing dots to discover energy-saving tips.
Kitchen
Look for the glowing dots — there are 5 things to find.
Energy-saving tip
Tip
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