reduce household energy use essay

Save Electricity Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on save electricity.

Electricity is an essential resource for a thriving life. It runs our daily life. Life without electricity would be impossible to imagine now. We generate electricity using coal or natural gas. However, people do not realize the natural resources to do as are limited and non-renewable. We must conserve electricity so that we can conserve these resources.

In other words, electricity serves mankind greatly. We must stop the wastage of power. The world will lose its light if there is no electricity. Moreover, careless behavior by humans must be checked. We need to realize the importance of electricity to save ourselves from the darkness.

Need for Electricity

Electricity is needed in almost every sphere of life now. We need it to lead a comfortable life full of all amenities and services. The world will become dormant without electricity. For instance, all our health and education facilities are conditioned by electricity. If there is no electricity, the surgeon won’t be able to perform his surgery. Moreover, students won’t be able to gain practical knowledge.

Likewise, motor mechanics in the garages and engineers in the factory depend on electricity. Furthermore, the passengers at the railway station and the airport can travel safely due to electricity only.

In addition, various means of transportation depend on electricity only. Trams and metros carry thousands of people every day. All this is made possible due to electricity only. Electricity boosts our modern life and helps in making it civilized.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

How to Save Electricity

Firstly, all of us must understand that even a small step will go a very long way in saving electricity. For instance, if every person at each home switches on the fan when not in use, thousands of watts of electricity can be saved.

Similarly, if we use our air conditioners, heaters, ovens, refrigerators and more properly, we can successfully save large amounts of electricity.

Furthermore, try making use of natural light more. Do not keep the lights unnecessarily in the morning and afternoons. Make do with the natural light as it is enough. We must replace all our old appliances as they consume a lot of electricity. In other words, we must strive to make our homes energy efficient.

Moreover, always remember to unplug your electrical gadgets when not in use. These devices consume at least 10% of electricity even when inactive. Thus, unplug them to save electricity.

In addition, try to cut down your TV watching time. Encourage kids to read and play outside instead. Likewise, try using laptops in place of desktops. Desktops consume more energy than a laptop. You must also switch off the fans if you using your air conditioner, thereby avoiding unnecessary wastage.

Most importantly, installing solar panels can help you excessively. They are very economical and help in saving a lot of energy. The solar panels will help in consuming lesser energy that too economically. Similarly, the industries which use megawatts of electricity must install windmills. This can help in getting cheap electricity through natural means.

{ “@context”: “https://schema.org”, “@type”: “FAQPage”, “mainEntity”: [{ “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “Why is Electricity important?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Electricity powers all the facilities now. It helps a surgeon perform life-saving surgery. Similarly, it helps students in learning practical knowledge at school. Furthermore, people lead a comfortable life all thanks to electricity.”} }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “How can we save electricity?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”:”One can adopt a number of ways to save electricity. Make sure to use natural light to the fullest and avoid turning on lights in the morning and afternoon. Moreover, always switch off fans and lights when not in use. Unplug your gadgets and install solar panels to get economic electricity.”} }] }

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• Energy efficiency
• How to save energy

16 ways to conserve energy and save on your bills

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Saving energy doesn't mean you have to do less or sacrifice any creature comforts. Thanks to new, more efficient (and often affordable) tech, it's easier than ever to get more out of your home while conserving electricity and other fuels, shrinking your utility bills, and reducing your environmental impact. Here are some of the lowest-hanging fruit you can start picking off in your home.

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1. Replace your light bulbs

Traditional incandescent light bulbs consume excessive electricity and don't last as long as energy-efficient alternatives. When shopping for light bulbs, look for the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, Energy Star. For reference, Energy Star-certified LED light bulbs use up to 90 percent less energy than an incandescent light bulb while providing the same amount of light. Although energy-efficient bulbs can be more expensive off the shelf, their efficient energy use and longer lifetimes mean they cost less in the long run.

2. Use smart power strips

"Phantom energy," also known as "standby energy" or "vampire energy," is the electricity used by electronics when turned off or in standby mode. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) , standby energy accounts for 5 to 10 percent of residential energy use and costs the average U.S. household as much as $100 per year. Smart power strips, also known as advanced power strips, eliminate the problem of phantom loads by shutting off the power to electronics when they are not in use. Smart power strips can turn off appliances at an assigned time, during a period of inactivity, through remote switches, or based on the status of a "master" device.

3. Install a programmable or smart thermostat

Smart thermostats can help reduce heating and cooling energy use without upgrading your HVAC system. Smart thermostats can automatically turn off or reduce heating and cooling while asleep or away and come in different models to fit your weekly schedule. 

According to ENERGY STAR , a smart thermostat could save you approximately 8 percent of your heating and cooling bills. Savings may vary based on your local climate, personal comfort preferences, how many people live in your home, and the type and age of HVAC equipment in your home. Some smart thermostats even indicate when to replace air filters or HVAC system problems to further improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. 

Learn more about smart thermostats like Google Nest and Ecobee .

4. Purchase energy-efficient appliances

When purchasing an appliance, you should pay attention to two numbers: the initial purchase price and the annual operating cost. Although energy-efficient appliances might have higher upfront purchase prices, they usually save money on your monthly utility bill.

When purchasing an energy-efficient appliance, look for the Energy Star label. Energy Star is a federal guarantee that the appliance will consume less energy than standard models. Importantly, energy savings differ based on the specific appliance. For example, Energy Star-certified clothes washers use approximately 20 percent less energy than standard models, whereas Energy Star refrigerators use 9 percent less energy.

5. Reduce your water heating expenses

Water heating significantly contributes to your total energy usage. Other than purchasing an energy-efficient water heater, there are three ways to reduce your water heating expenses: use less hot water, turn down the thermostat on your water heater, or insulate your water heater with the first six feet of hot and cold water pipes.

When shopping for efficient water heaters, consider the type of water heater that meets your needs and the fuel it will use. For example, tankless water heaters are energy efficient, but they are also a poor choice for large families as they cannot handle multiple and simultaneous uses of hot water. Heat pump water heaters are one of the most efficient ways to heat your home's water. Energy Star-certified heat pump water heaters can save a household of four people approximately $550 per year on its electric bills compared to a standard electric water heater. While heat pump water heaters usually have a higher upfront cost, tax credits and rebates are available to many homeowners looking to upgrade to a heat pump water heater.

6. Install energy-efficient windows

According to the Department of Energy (DOE) , heat gain and loss through windows account for 25 to 30 percent of most homes' heating and cooling energy. You can replace single-pane windows with double-pane products to prevent heat loss through your windows. For homes in colder regions, "low-e" storm windows are more insulating and can significantly reduce your heating expenses. In addition, low-e interior or exterior storm windows can reduce unnecessary heat loss by 10 to 30 percent. You should especially consider storm windows if your area frequently experiences extreme weather.

In warmer climates, heat gain through windows may be a problem. In addition to minimizing heat loss, low-e coatings on windows can reduce heat gain by reflecting more light and lowering the amount of thermal energy that enters your home. Energy Star breaks down the most efficient windows by climate or area of the U.S. on its website . Window shades, shutters, screens, and awnings can also provide an extra layer of insulation between your home and outside temperatures, leading to more energy conservation and better energy management. Some states and utility companies also offer incentives for replacing windows with more energy-efficient versions.

When shopping for energy-efficient windows, there are two key labels to look for:

Energy Star label: review details on this label just as you would on appliances

National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label : helps you compare between energy-efficient windows, doors, and skylights by providing you with energy performance ratings in multiple categories.

7. Upgrade your HVAC system

An HVAC system comprises heating, ventilation, and air conditioning equipment. Replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with Energy Star-certified equipment can cut your annual energy bill by nearly $140 . Whether you select heat pumps or a natural gas furnace, you'll want to ensure the HVAC equipment you choose is sufficient for your climate. Heat pumps are advantageous because they efficiently heat and cool your home. Otherwise, you'll need two systems: an air conditioner to cool and a furnace or boiler to heat.

Upgrades to ventilation can also improve your energy efficiency. A ventilation system comprises a network of ducts that distribute hot and cold air throughout your home. If these ducts are not properly sealed or insulated, the resulting energy waste can add hundreds of dollars to your annual heating and cooling expenses. Proper insulation and maintenance on your ventilation system can reduce your heating and cooling expenses by up to 20 percent.

8. Weatherize your home

Weatherizing, or sealing air leaks around your home, is another way to reduce your heating and cooling expenses. The shield or "building envelope" between the inside and outside provides a barrier to weather, air, and moisture. The most common sources of air leaks into your home are vents, windows, and doors. Ensure there are no cracks or openings between the wall and vent, window, or doorframe to prevent these leaks.

You can apply caulk to seal air leaks between stationary objects, such as the wall and window frame, and weather stripping for cracks between moving objects, such as operable windows and doors. Weather stripping and caulking are simple air-sealing techniques that typically offer a return on investment in less than a year. Air leaks can also occur through openings in the wall, floor, and ceiling from plumbing, ducting, or electrical wiring.

Hot air rises and escapes through small openings, whether through ducts, light fixtures, or the attic hatch. As the natural flow of heat is from warmer to cooler areas, these small openings can make your heating bill even higher if your attic is not sufficiently insulated. Some approaches to energy efficiency, such as the Passive House standard , include a specific standard of thermal performance for the building envelope. Consider fully insulating your home to get the most out of weatherization.

9. Insulate your home

Insulation plays a crucial role in lowering your utility bills by retaining heat during the winter and keeping heat out of your home during the summer. The level of insulation you should install depends on the area of your house. Your attic, walls, floors, basement, and crawlspace are the five main areas where you should consider adding insulation. Consider receiving an energy audit to help you determine if you need to add insulation.

10. Get a home energy audit

Here's what a typical energy audit might look like in your home:

An energy auditor will look at your building from the outside. They'll examine various components, including windows, walls, and eaves, to see if they can spot any significant issues causing leaks into or out of your home.

The auditor will check out the attic (if you have one) to look at a few things. Most importantly, they'll inspect your insulation to ensure it's correctly installed and applied evenly between your walls. They'll also evaluate the holes where electrical lines run to see if they're properly sealed or could be a source of leakage.

The auditor will examine your furnace and water heater. If either is on the older side, it's likely a candidate for an upgrade. They'll also probably look at the filter in the furnace to ensure it doesn't require replacement. They'll check connections in the ducts in your basement to try and locate any possible leaks where you may be losing heat and energy. 

Most professional audits will include a blower door test. This device allows them to locate air leakage and test air quality in your home. During a blower door test, all the windows and doors are closed, and they'll use a blower door machine to depressurize the house. At that point, the auditor often uses an infrared camera to see where cold air may leak into your home and identify opportunities for air sealing.

Finally, audits usually include an inspection of the lighting in your home. 

What you pay for a professional energy audit often depends on the company and size of your property (some companies offer fixed rates, while others will charge more for a larger home). Even as a paid service, the upfront cost for an energy audit and the following energy efficiency updates are usually worth it when you save on your electricity bills down the line. In fact, by making energy efficiency upgrades in your home, you can save between 5 and 30 percent on your energy bills, according to the DOE.

Pairing solar power and energy efficiency

Combining solar power and energy efficiency can maximize your financial benefit in the long run. Your solar panel system produces renewable energy on your property, but as with any technology, it will degrade and produce less energy over time. An energy audit will help you maintain lower electricity bills as your solar panel system ages.

Some solar loan products enable you to bundle financing for your solar panel system and energy efficiency measures in one package. In many cases, these financing options offer lower interest rates, a higher maximum loan amount, or other incentives to make it easier for you to do both.

11. Wash your clothes in cold water when possible

Washing clothes is a necessary chore and part of the weekly routine of most Americans, but it's also energy-intensive. According to Energy Star , heating water uses about 90 percent of the energy to operate a clothes washer. Fortunately, some claim that washing in cold water can increase the lifespan of your clothes!

12. Clean or replace your air filters

Many home systems, like your HVAC, use filters that must be replaced or cleaned regularly. Clean filters are more efficient and put less strain on your system, but this step often gets overlooked. It's best to refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific equipment, but in general, you'll want to clean them every month or two.

13. Use your toaster oven

Along with other household chores, heating food is necessary but energy-taxing. Using a toaster oven instead of a regular oven can be an energy-saver if you have smaller portions. Overall, microwaves are the most energy-efficient ways to reheat food.

14. Use natural light

Using light from the sun is an intuitive way to reduce energy consumption. North and south-facing windows allow for more glancing light that produces heat and limits harsh light in the winter. While east and west-facing windows allow for more direct sunlight, they aren't as effective at letting heat in. Trees and nearby structures can also shade a building's surfaces and block winds from different directions.

15. Dress for the weather

While it may seem obvious to bundle up when going out in the winter, doing so inside can also help save on your heating costs. If you stay warm by wearing more clothes indoors, you can reduce the energy needed to heat your home.

16. Adjust your day to day behaviors

Luckily, you don't always need to purchase new energy-efficient products to reduce energy consumption in your home. Energy conservation can be as simple as turning off lights or appliances when you're not using them! Performing household tasks manually also avoids the use of energy-intensive appliances. For example, hang-drying your clothes conserves the energy your clothes dryer would use otherwise. 

Heating and cooling costs typically impact utility bills the most, so reductions in the intensity and frequency of those activities offer the most significant savings. Energy monitors help you understand where most of your electricity is going in your home and which appliances use the most electricity daily.

Energy efficient products for your home

There are many different products you can purchase to improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your overall energy consumption. Below are some examples of ways you can leverage renewable energy sources and reduce your dependence on fossil fuels:

Solar panels

Solar panels can help you use available energy from the sun to power your home, so you can harness that energy to power your home. 

Solar batteries

You can install solar batteries when you install solar panels, allowing you to store the extra solar energy your panels generate when the sun goes down as well as other benefits like increased energy savings.

An alternative to having two different HVAC systems to heat and cool your home, air source heat pumps are a type of heating and cooling system that moves heat inside during the winter and outside during the summer.

Frequently asked questions

What wastes the most electricity in the average household?

An HVAC system uses the most energy of anything in the home. Heating and cooling use about half of your home's energy, according to the U.S. Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

What is the average electric bill for a house and apartment?

The average electric bill is $198 according to data from our nationwide EnergySage marketplace. It varies greatly depending on location and home size. 

Does unplugging things save money?

Unplugging unused devices around your home can be an easy way to save 5-10% on your electricity bill, according the the U.S. Department of Energy.

How can I save energy while at work?

Installing a smart thermometer, insulating your home, and upgrading your HVAC system are all ways to save energy while you’re at work.

Which month has the highest energy consumption?

Electricity usage is typically highest during the summer months when homes and offices use air conditioning to stay cool.

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Easy Ways to Save Energy at Home

Small steps can add up to big reductions in your electricity use—and your utility bill.

LEDs use up to 85 percent less energy to deliver the same amount of light as incandescents.

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1. Turn things off.

That doesn't just mean hitting the light switch when you leave a room (although that's important, too). You should also make sure your television, computer, video game consoles, cable boxes, and digital video recorders are switched off when you're not actively using them—or unplugged completely, if they light up or otherwise use energy even when powered down. Chargers for cell phones, tablets, and other cordless devices also use small amounts of energy even when they're not charging. Plug items you use regularly into a power strip, so you can easily switch them all off at once. Computers can also be set to sleep or hibernate mode, which use much less power than when they're on and active; program yours to do this automatically after 10 to 15 minutes of inactivity. And skip the screen savers; they're not necessary to protect modern monitors, and it's much more efficient to simply set your monitor to switch off when it's not in use.

2. Buy smarter bulbs.

An LED light bulb costs as little as $5 at home improvement stores, and it can save more than $100 over its lifetime. LEDs use up to 85 percent less energy to deliver the same amount of light as incandescents, and they come in many different shapes, colors, and intensities. They also reach full brightness instantly and can work with dimmer switches. Check to see whether your local utility offers a rebate for energy-efficient bulbs, which would bring their cost down even further.)

3. Don't use more energy than you need.

Don't run the dishwasher when it's not full, set your washing machine to the appropriate water level, and wash clothes—except for the dirtiest of loads—in cold water. Set your refrigerator temperature between 28 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer between 0 and 5, and make sure both are sealed tightly. (If a dollar bill shut in the door is easy to pull out, replace the gaskets.) The clothes dryer is one of the largest energy users in the home, often consuming as much as a new refrigerator, dishwasher, and clothes washer combined . Air-dry clothing when possible, and when you have to use your machine, be sure to clean the lint filter after each use, use the auto-dry or moisture-sensor setting, and don't add wet items to a load that's already partially dry.

4. Tweak your TV settings.

Although today's high-definition televisions use around 60 percent less energy than earlier ones, some Internet-ready models consume excess power after they're turned off, thanks to a "quick start" feature that allows them to boot up a few seconds faster. Disable that option in your television's settings—and while you're there, see if your model has an automatic brightness control, or ABC, sensor, which will adjust the picture brightness to the level of light in the room. Since most TV viewing occurs at night, this can make a big difference in energy consumption. If you want to stream movies and use services like Netflix or YouTube, consider buying an Internet-ready television or a small add-on device—like Apple TV, Google Chromecast, or a Roku box—which uses very little power. Avoid streaming video through game consoles like PlayStation or Xbox, which can use up to 30 times more energy. (If you do use a game console regularly, at least set it to "auto power down" mode.)

5. Measure your electricity.

An electricity monitor meter, such as a Kill A Watt Meter, measures how much energy each gadget in your home uses, when on and when ostensibly turned off. These typically cost less than $30 at home improvement stores, but can provide many aha moments. For example, one could show that your "turned off" DVR set-top box from the cable or satellite company is drawing around 20 watts even though you're not watching or recording a show.

6. Close up the cracks.

If you add up all the gaps around the windows and doors in an average American house, you have the equivalent of a 3-foot by 3-foot hole in the wall. Caulk and weather-strip to seal off these air leaks, and use window putty to seal gaps around loose window panes. And stop heated or cooled air from escaping under doors by attaching "sweeps" or "shoes" to their bottoms. You may also benefit from better insulation in your attic, under your floors, around your hot water heater and pipes, and in crawl spaces. Even something as simple as replacing old windows or covering bare floors with rugs can make a big difference. Ask your utility company if it provides free energy audits, during which a professional will assess your home and make suggestions for improvements, or visit EnergyStar.gov 's Home Improvement section. Many energy-saving insulation upgrades are now more affordable thanks to the Energy Efficient Home Improvement [Tax] Credit .

7. Shop smarter.

Many of today's new appliances use half the energy of those from 20 years ago. If you're in the market, look for products with the Energy Star label. They typically use about 10 to 40 percent less energy than other new models. Some electric companies and even state governments offer consumer rebates on Energy Star–rated models. Shopping for a new computer? Keep in mind that laptops use significantly less energy than desktop versions and can be hooked up to external monitors and keyboards when you want the big-screen experience. Remodeling your bathroom? Replace old showerheads with new low-flow designs to prevent excess hot water (and the energy used to heat it) from going down the drain.

8. Choose renewable energy.

If you are able to choose your own energy supplier , pick one that uses renewable power resources, like solar, wind, low-impact hydroelectric, or geothermal. In some states, instead of choosing a specific electricity supplier, you can support renewable energy by paying a small premium on your electric bill. Ask your electricity supplier what options are available for you.

9. Recycle old electronics.

When you buy new energy-efficient appliances and electronics, it's important to dispose of the old ones in a planet-friendly way. Hand down devices that still work—like telephones, laptops, or tablets—to younger family members, or go online and search for buy-back programs. Retailers such as Best Buy and Staples have extensive in-store recycling programs for working and nonworking devices; they'll accept most electronics and will recycle them properly for free, regardless of where you bought them.

10. Adjust the temperature.

Even if you buy the most efficient air conditioner, heater, or water heater on the market, your energy savings are highly dependent on the settings you select. (Do you really need your AC cranked up to sweater-wearing temps?) If you own your home, invest in a programmable thermostat; it costs $100 or less and can cut energy consumption by 20 to 30 percent—saving $180 a year—by adjusting the temperature throughout the day.

Check the temperature settings on your gas or electric water heater, too. If it's set higher than you really need, it's working harder than necessary—and costing you more money—to make sure hot water is always ready for you. If the hot water from your tap almost burns your hand, your setting is too high.

This story was originally published on March 15, 2016 and has been updated with new information and links.

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Essay on Save Electricity

Students are often asked to write an essay on Save Electricity in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Save Electricity

Understanding electricity.

Electricity is a vital resource, powering our homes and schools. It comes from various sources, including coal, wind, and solar power.

Why Save Electricity?

Conserving electricity helps the environment and saves money. It reduces the demand for fossil fuels, leading to less air pollution.

Ways to Save Electricity

Turn off lights when not in use. Unplug devices when fully charged. Use energy-efficient appliances.

Role of Students

Students can play a big role. They can spread awareness about the importance of saving electricity and encourage others to do the same.

250 Words Essay on Save Electricity

Introduction.

Electricity is an essential commodity that powers our modern civilization. Yet, it’s a finite resource generated primarily from non-renewable sources. Therefore, it’s crucial to adopt measures to save electricity, not only to reduce our utility bills but also to contribute to environmental sustainability.

Understanding Electricity Consumption

Before we can save electricity, we must understand where and how we consume it. Most electricity is used in lighting, heating, cooling, and operating appliances. By becoming aware of our consumption patterns, we can identify key areas where savings can be made.

Energy-Efficient Appliances

One of the most effective ways to save electricity is by using energy-efficient appliances. These appliances, although more expensive initially, consume less electricity and thus save money in the long run. Moreover, they reduce the demand on power plants, decreasing greenhouse gas emissions.

Smart Use of Electricity

Simple changes in behavior can lead to substantial savings. Turning off lights when not in use, unplugging devices, using natural light during the day, and setting thermostats to optimal temperatures are all ways to conserve electricity.

Renewable Energy Sources

Switching to renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power is another way to save electricity. These sources are sustainable, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and can even allow households to generate their own electricity.

500 Words Essay on Save Electricity

The imperative of saving electricity.

Electricity has become an indispensable part of modern life, powering everything from our homes to our industries. However, the environmental and economic implications of excessive electricity consumption necessitate a renewed focus on energy conservation.

The Environmental Impact of Electricity Consumption

The environmental footprint of electricity production is significant. Power plants, primarily fueled by coal and natural gas, emit large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. These emissions contribute to climate change, a global crisis threatening biodiversity, weather patterns, and human health. By reducing our electricity use, we can decrease the demand for fossil fuels and mitigate the effects of climate change.

Economic Consequences of Wasteful Electricity Use

Strategies for saving electricity.

Behavioral changes can also lead to significant electricity savings. Turning off lights when not in use, unplugging electronics, and using natural light when possible are simple yet effective ways to save electricity.

The Role of Policy in Promoting Electricity Conservation

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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Updated in 2022, the Energy Saver guide offers tips for saving money and energy at home and on the road.

By following just a few of the simple tips in the Energy Saver guide, you can make your home more comfortable and easier to heat and cool--while you save money. We bring you the latest information on energy-saving, efficient technologies. We even give tips for using clean, renewable energy to power your home.

This guide shows you how easy it is to cut your energy use at home and also on the road. Some of the tips are simple to do. Others require more effort and investment, but promise big savings over the years. 

Download the guide today for an overview of the tips improvements that will contribute to your energy bottom line and make our planet healthier and cleaner. Then visit the  Energy Saver website  for more details on how to improve the efficiency of your home.

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Download the Energy Saver Guide in English, updated in 2022:   Please note the Energy Saver Guide is not available in print.

Energy Saver Guide: Tips on Saving Money and Energy at Home

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Energy Conservation on the Household Level

What role do households play in energy consumption and conservation?

Households are an important target group for energy conservation efforts, as 15% to 20% of the total energy requirements in most countries with a high income and high human development indexes (i.e. OECD countries) are from household energy consumption. Within households, heating and cooling are the primary uses of electricity in the U.S. while computers, television, and lighting combined account for only about 15% of electricity use. Price-based energy conservation approaches, such as cap-and-trade or carbon tax systems, rely on creating financial incentives for energy conservation and have received a lot of attention in recent years. However, non-price energy conservation strategies are an emerging and promising way of encouraging energy conservation in households through slight changes in behaviors. These strategies, which are informed by behavioral sciences and social psychology, may be less expensive and less controversial than price-based strategies. Overall, these strategies tackle the current barriers to energy conservation, namely lack of knowledge around effective ways to reduce energy consumption, the low priority and high cost of saving energy, and the lack of feasible alternatives at the household level.

What factors influence a household’s decisions when it comes to using and saving energy?

To begin, it’s important to understand the different factors that influence a household’s decisions when it comes to consuming and saving energy. Identifying these factors, which can be both external and internal, can help us understand the potential pathways through which interventions can impact energy consumption. First, external factors such as household income level and energy price influence a household’s ability to adopt certain energy conservation behaviors over others. More precisely, household energy consumption increases non-linearly with income. To conserve energy, high income households tend to invest more in energy conservation technologies while low-income families tend to change their behavior to save energy.Households are also less likely to reduce their energy use if the behavioral costs are high in terms of money, effort, or convenience.

Second, internal factors such as attitudes, beliefs, and psychology also shape the decisions a household makes when it comes to saving energy. Psychological and social theories can help understand the conditions leading to sustained practices of energy conservation. According to the theory of planned behavior, the direct determinants of an individual’s behavior are behavioral intention, subjective norms, and the level of control that individuals feel when they practice specific behaviors. Consequently, improving our understanding of human psychology is crucial to promoting energy conservation, especially when external policy incentives are lacking. Then, according to the value-belief-norm model, beliefs and norms explain the formation of environmentally friendly behavior among individuals. In other words, the adoption of energy conservation strategies depends on the synergy or conflict between people’s goals and behaviors. Consequently, people’s goals should conflict the least to promote energy conservation.

Finally, there is currently a general lack of knowledge among household members surrounding energy use related to behavior, such as the false belief that small appliances consume less than big ones. Such gaps in knowledge can hinder energy conservation within households.

What strategies can be used to reduce the energy consumed by households?

There are various energy-conservation strategies that can be applied at the household level to change energy consumption behaviors. First, energy conservation can be promoted by changing the structures and contextual factors in which decisions related to energy use are made, such as by providing subsidies, improving communication between energy providers and consumers, or making energy waste more expensive. For example, energy conservation can be facilitated by increasing the availability and affordability of energy-efficient appliances, as long as they meet the important needs, wants, and preferences of household members. There is however a possibility of a rebound effect, meaning households may use appliances more often because they are energy efficient. Similarly, changes in policies and legal measures can also shift energy consumption behaviors. Energy conservation policies are more likely to be accepted when they increase rather than decrease freedom of choice, are perceived as fair and efficient, target efficient behavior rather than curtailment behavior, and are aimed at reducing household energy consumption rather than transportation-related energy use. Policy interventions are more likely to last if the social and structural contexts in which households make decisions surrounding energy use are already encouraging of energy conservation.

Second, energy conservation can be promoted by changing the moral and social context in which decisions related to energy use are made. Sustainable energy consumption is influenced by personal values, with altruistic and environmental values being as important as external factors such as income in influencing energy conservation behaviors. As a result, conservation interventions should focus on amending hedonic and gain goals while solidifying normative goals of energy conservation. Increasing the importance of energy conservation and forming an environmentally conscious atmosphere can transform energy conservation into a social norm. This new norm can then be internalized as a personal norm through for instance incentives, energy-saving publicity, education, rewarding energy saving, and the overall creation of convenient energy-saving environments such as improved public transit. Since personal values don’t always translate into actual energy conservation behavior, it is crucial to create social norms and an overall atmosphere that promotes conservation rather than just relying on people’s personal ethics.

Finally, providing tailored information and advice to households can help encourage the implementation of energy-conserving behaviors. Informational strategies are especially effective when pro-environmental behavior is relatively convenient and not very costly in terms of money, time, effort or social disapproval, and when individuals do not face severe constraints on behavior. The most successful information strategies include prompts, individualized social marketing (where information is tailored based on the needs, wants, and perceived barriers of consumer groups), commitment strategies, implementation intentions, and modeling and providing information about others’ behaviors. Tailored information is also more efficient at changing behaviors than general information targeting a broad public. Nevertheless, despite a rise in knowledge and concern about environmental issues, energy consumption has been rising, reflecting the fact that people’s actions are not always aligned with their concerns and that energy conservation is attributed a low priority.

What’s the main takeaway?

Households are a promising target group for energy conservation efforts, as they account for a large proportion of energy demand and can easily be encouraged to reduce their energy use through a range of inexpensive strategies such as influencing social norms and providing tailored information and advice about energy conservation. Energy conservation strategies can aim to change the structures and contexts in which decisions are made, such as through changes in available products, services, infrastructure, policies, pricing, and legal measures. Strategies to promote household energy conservation can also be psychological, such as by changing the knowledge, perceptions, motivations, cognition, or norms related to energy use through information, education and modeling.

Written by Gwen Aubrac

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2008.09.027

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpubeco.2011.03.003

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2018.12.061

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Take on climate change at home and cut carbon emissions. Here's how

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Climate change is here and there's little we can do to reverse the damage already done, but we can avoid future increases in global temperature that will help the earth – and our lives on it – for generations to come.

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Homes and commercial buildings account for about a third of the country's greenhouse gas emissions , because it takes energy to heat and cool them and to power all the gadgets we've got plugged in. Much of that energy, whether it's electricity from a power plant far away or heat from a gas furnace in your basement, comes from burning fossil fuels, which releases greenhouse gases.

But you can change that. "If you want to do something about climate change, your home is among the most important places to look," says Donnel Baird, CEO of BlocPower , a startup company that's carrying out energy upgrades of buildings in several cities, including New York.

Start with simple steps.

Rather than relying on a thermostat to control the temperature, try natural ventilation to cool your home in summer. Kaz Fantone for NPR hide caption

We talked to experts and collected tips for how to proceed. Rohini Srivastava , a senior researcher at the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, says it makes sense to start with small, simple and cheap steps that save energy.

For instance, there's that energy-control device called a thermostat. "I would start off with heating and cooling my space smartly," Srivastava says. That could mean relying more on natural ventilation to cool your home in summer while turning the thermostat down during the night in winter and staying cozy with more blankets instead. If you don't fight the seasons quite so aggressively, your heater and air conditioner won't have to work so hard.

Another simple fix: Seal the cracks and holes around the house that allow air to blow through. You may have to learn about caulking and weatherstripping, but you can pick up all you need to know at your local hardware store.

5 Tips To Help You Pick The Best Lightbulb For Your Room

Finally, if you have old-style incandescent light bulbs in your house, go buy LEDs instead . And stop electronic devices such as televisions and laptop computers from sipping power all night long. Plugging them into a power strip makes it easy to disconnect them at night, and a "smart power strip" will even do it for you.

When you don't own the equipment, get creative.

If you pay your own utilities, you often can buy clean electricity. Kaz Fantone for NPR hide caption

Bigger moves to cut energy use often involve major appliances such as furnaces and water heaters, and that's an obstacle for people who don't actually own that equipment.

It's a real hurdle, but even renters and condo owners have some options.

For instance, if you're paying your own utilities, you often can buy clean electricity. In many states, including California, Texas and most of the Northeast, you can get your power from companies that purchase wind or solar electricity and add it to the grid for you to use. In many places you can also buy a share in a solar project nearby called "community solar."

Eating Less Meat Helps The Environment. Here Are Recipes To Help

You may even be able to put a little pressure on your landlord or condo association. "We want you to open up a conversation with the owner and/or manager of your building," BlocPower's Baird says. "Are they saving you enough money by using modern green energy technologies that can reduce your monthly utility bill? "

To help you figure out what might be possible in your building, BlocPower has a website that lets anyone enter basic information about their building and then offers energy-saving recommendations.

Take a close look at the biggest energy hogs in your home.

Switching to a more efficient appliance can make a big difference in energy consumption. Kaz Fantone for NPR hide caption

Some of the biggest changes you can make to reduce your carbon footprint involve big-ticket items such as furnaces, air conditioning units and water heaters. If any of these appliances are old, they're probably a lot less efficient than the latest technology. A switch may also provide an opportunity to shift from gas, which inevitably releases carbon dioxide, to electricity, which is becoming cleaner as electric utilities shut down coal-burning plants and shift toward zero-carbon sources such as solar and wind.

Fighting Climate Change From Home

• Keeping food scraps from landfills can help the environment. You can do that by composting .
• Cutting back on the amount of meat you eat (even just a little) can have a big impact. More here .
• Most parents agree that kids should be learning about climate change. Here's how to talk to them about it .
• Fast fashion takes a huge toll on the environment. Here's how to cultivate a more sustainable closet .

"You want to turn your building into a Tesla; just like Tesla is taking fossil fuel engines out of vehicles, you want to take fossil fuel equipment out of your home," Baird says.

An efficient alternative to gas heating is often an electric heat pump, which can handle your cooling as well. Heat pumps work on the same principle as a refrigerator; they can move heat from outdoors to indoors, or the other way around. They'll heat your home in winter and cool it in summer. There also are water heaters that use heat pumps. In the past, heat pumps have not worked well when the weather gets really cold, but the technology has improved dramatically in recent years.

They cost thousands of dollars though, and deciding whether to make the switch can be complicated.

Get some help and advice from the pros.

A home energy audit can point out ways to increase the efficiency of your space. Kaz Fantone for NPR hide caption

You may need some help figuring out exactly what makes sense to do in your particular house. In many cases, utilities offer rebates to encourage people to buy more efficient equipment, and "they might have recommendations for contractors who can come in and help you understand ... what's the best option," Srivastava says.

You might also consider a home energy audit. In some cases, these may be subsidized by utilities or local governments. Otherwise, they're likely to cost around $400 to $500.

Cheng Vang of the Center for Energy and Environment in Minnesota trains energy auditors. He says an auditor will have a long list of items to check, starting with insulation in the attic and walls and air leaks. Auditors will check all the systems to see how efficient they are. They'll probably do a "blower door test," which sucks air out of the house to detect hidden air leaks.

The audit will lay out various options for improving a building's performance. Sometimes auditors will go further and provide a rough estimate for how much each option will cost and how much it will save in utility bills — or greenhouse emissions.

See if your house can generate its own electricity.

A solar company should be able to draw up a proposal that lays out the cost and the effectiveness of solar for your home. Kaz Fantone for NPR hide caption

Solar panels on rooftops used to be a novelty, but in some places they're now quite common. Baird says that for many companies, "solar installation is very, very sophisticated and very straightforward. They use satellite imagery to look at your roof. They can see if you have a tree that's going to shade part of the solar panel. So it's one of the simpler things that you can do."

Whether these systems are affordable will vary tremendously, because some places, such as Washington, D.C., offer generous financial incentives. But a solar company should be able to draw up a proposal that lays all that out.

If you have the space and the sunlight and the money, you can supply your home with its own clean power — at least while the sun is shining.

The podcast version of this episode was produced by Clare Lombardo . Josh Newell provided engineering support.

We'd love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823 or email us at [email protected] .

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Quick tips to save energy

Follow our tips and advice for quick and easy ways to save energy, lower your bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Whether you’re a homeowner, a private or social renter, a student, or you live with your parents, there are many things you can do.

We’re all responsible for the energy we use in our homes. Take a look at our quick tips below and see how you could save up to £314 a year in Great Britain (GB) and £493 in Northern Ireland (NI) on your bills.

Need more help? Find out what support is  available where you live .

Before you start

Understand your energy bill. The information on it may be confusing, but understanding your bill will help you know where you can save energy at home. This video from  Home Energy Scotland  can get you started.

Switch off standby

You can save around £40 in GB and £70 in NI annually just by remembering to turn your appliances off standby mode.

Almost all  electrical appliances  can be turned off at the plug without upsetting their programming. Standby savers allow you to turn all your appliances off standby in one go to save electricity.

Check the instructions for any appliances you aren’t sure about. Some satellite and digital TV recorders may need to be left plugged in so they can keep track of any programmes you want to record.

Find out which  appliances use the most energy in your home.

Draught-proof windows and doors

Unless your home is new, you’ll lose some heat through draughts around doors and windows, gaps around the floor, or through the chimney.

Professional  draught-proofing of windows, doors and blocking cracks in floors and skirting boards can save around £70 in GB and £100 in NI on annual energy bills. Getting professional help can cost around £250, but DIY draught proofing can be much cheaper.

Find out more about  reducing home heat loss .

Turn off lights

Turn your lights off when you’re not using them or when you leave a room. This will save you around £7 in GB and £30 in NI on your annual energy bills.

Replacing all the lights in your home with LED bulbs could help you save even more .

Careful with your washing

You can save around £22 in GB and £36 in NI a year on your energy bill by making small changes in how you use your washing machine:

• Use your washing machine on a 30-degree cycle instead of higher temperatures.
• Reduce your washing machine use by one run per week for a year.

Avoid the tumble dryer

Avoid using a tumble dryer for your clothes. Drying clothes on racks inside where possible or outside in warmer weather can save you £45 in GB and £75 in NI a year.

Spend less time in the shower

Keeping your shower time to just 4 minutes could save a typical household £50 in GB and £70 in NI a year on their energy bills.

Swap your bath for a shower

Some of us might enjoy a long soak in the bath. But swapping just one bath a week with a 4-minute shower could save you £8 in GB and £15 in NI a year on your energy bills.

Find out how saving water at home can help your wallet and the environment.

Be savvy in the kitchen

Kettles are one of the most used appliances in the kitchen. But many of us will admit that we occasionally boil the kettle with more water than we’re actually going to use.

Avoid overfilling the kettle and you can save yourself £9 in GB and £14 in NI a year on your electricity bill.

You could also consider fitting an aerator onto your existing kitchen tap. This will help reduce the amount of water coming out without affecting how it washes or rinses. An aerator is a small gadget with tiny holes which attaches to the spout of your tap. It’s cheap and easy to install and could save you £17 in GB and £20 in NI a year.

Fill your dishwasher

Only run your dishwasher when it’s to full reduce the amount of water you use. Reducing your dishwasher use by one run per week for a year could save you £11 in GB and £18 in NI.

Top up the insulation

Effective insulation of your hot water cylinder is important. If you have thin spray foam or a loose 25mm jacket, you can benefit from increasing the insulation to a British Standard Jacket (80mm thick). Doing this will help you save £35 in GB and £45 in NI a year.

Insulating your water tank, pipes and radiators is a quick and easy way to save money on your bills.

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Additional resources

How to save money on your energy bills, financial support for home energy efficiency, how can i get £400 off my energy bills from october, energy savings for your budget.

Last updated: 30 April 2024

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What Uses the Most Electricity in a Home?

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The energy we use is usually measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh); 1 kWh is equal to 1,000 watts working for one hour.

In 2022, the United States consumed 4 trillion kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. And of that 4 trillion kWh, 1.42 trillion were used in households. That's almost 40 percent of U.S. electricity going to power homes, which is more than either the commercial or the industrial sector uses.

Why the huge glut of energy consumption in the residential sector? Simple: Home appliances draw extreme amounts of energy. An appliance rated at 1,000 watts, left on for one hour, will use 1 kWh of electricity. So, what uses the most electricity in a home ?

• Refrigerators and Freezers
• Water Heating
• Space Heating
• Air Conditioning

How to Calculate Energy Usage

5. lighting.

Accounting for 4.4 percent of residential energy usage, lighting is the fifth biggest source of home energy consumption. The good news? New LED light bulbs use significantly less energy than incandescent bulbs and even CFL bulbs .

Swapping incandescent bulbs for more energy-efficient LED bulbs is one way to save money on energy bills and reduce your home's energy consumption. Instead of leaving your outdoor security lights on all night, use motion-detecting lights.

Putting light bulbs on a timer can also ensure you don't accidentally leave lights on when you don't need them.

4. Refrigerators and Freezers

Refrigerators use the most energy of any kitchen appliance. How much energy your fridge uses, however, depends on your particular model. In 2023, Energy Star-certified refrigerators ranged in consumption from 88 kWh/year for a mini fridge to 807 kWh/year for a 31-cubic-foot (0.88 cubic-meter) smart fridge.

That's the thing about energy ratings for any particular appliance: The range is vast. Some people still have fridges from the 1980s (or even earlier), which means they're still using in the thousands of kWh every year (and enduring a commensurate electricity bill).

If you have a brand new, high-efficiency unit, your electricity usage could be more like 400 kWh/year. And then there are all the other factors: model size, freezer orientation (top freezers are more efficient), temperature settings, device placement, refrigeration habits and any available energy-saving modes (more on these in a moment).

Regardless of which model you have, there are steps you can take to reduce its energy use (although if your refrigerator/freezer is more than 15 years old, the most important change is to buy a new, energy-efficient model if you can afford it):

• Check for a power-saver switch. Some refrigerators have in-door heaters to reduce external condensation. If you see a "power saver" switch, turn it on. If you don't notice condensation afterward, you don't need to use that feature.
• Check the thermostat. For refrigerators, 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) is ideal; for freezers, it's 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius).
• Defrost. More than 0.25 inch (0.64 cm) of frost buildup hurts efficiency.
• Check the seals. Close the door on a piece of paper. It should be held firmly in place. If not, replace the seal.
• Use good refrigeration habits. Label food so you can quickly find what you're looking for, cool hot food before refrigerating or freezing it and know what you want before you open the door.

3. Water Heating

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating water was responsible for 11 percent of U.S. home energy use in 2020. We use the water heater in so many applications: showers, cleaning dishes, cleaning clothes — it's a pretty ubiquitous part of our daily routine.

And at an average consumption of 400 kWh per month, it's also a power-intensive one.

Of course, the actual amount of energy you spend on hot water depends on a lot of factors, including the type (standard, solar, tankless) and size of your water heater, what temperature it's set at, how long you shower for and whether you wash your clothes in cold or hot water. But no matter what model you have, you can do a few things to help your water heater perform more efficiently:

• Check the thermostat. You probably don't need your water hotter than 120 degrees F (50 degrees C).
• Insulate the hot water storage tank and first 6 feet (1.8 meters) of pipes connected to the tank, so you're not losing heat during storage and transport.
• Remove a quart of water every three months to limit sediment buildup that can lower the unit's efficiency.
• Install a drain-water heat recovery system to capture the energy in used water.
• Take shorter showers.
• Wash clothes in cold or cool water.
• Turn off the "water heat" feature on the dishwasher.

2. Space Heating

A home heating system is one of hungriest home appliances. It's also arguably the most necessary one.

The kWh range for heating devices is extremely broad, running from a measly 100 kWh per month to a shocking 3,500 kWh/month (if you live in a cold region, you've probably been shocked by your energy bill more than once). It all depends on which type of heat you use and how energy-efficient your particular model is.

Here are some approximate numbers for various heating systems:

• Baseboard unit : 100-500 kWh/month
• Portable heater : 200-300 kWh/month
• Heat pump : 900-2,000 kWh/month
• Electric furnace : 1,500-3,500 kWh/month

Other factors include where you set the thermostat and whether you have a programmable thermostat to cut back on wasted heat.

Upgrading to a more efficient heating unit is the best way to reduce your heat-related energy use — there are furnaces out there that operate at 97 percent efficiency, while your model may only be 78 percent efficient.

Short of an expensive upgrade, you can also help your system work more efficiently and lower your kWh if you:

• Upgrade to a programmable thermostat.
• Make sure the thermostat isn't located near any sources of heat or cold that might mess with its reading.
• Set the thermostat to the lowest temperature at which you're comfortable.
• Seal and insulate your home's ducts.
• Make sure nothing is blocking your vents.
• Replace your filters regularly.

And perhaps the best new habit to embrace: If you're feeling a bit cold, put on a sweatshirt.

1. Air Conditioning

In 2020, almost 88 percent of homes in the United States used air conditioning [source: EIA ]. Air conditioning, which typically uses high-watt machines for extended periods of time, accounts for a big chunk of residential energy use.

As usual, the actual number of watts consumed in cooling a home varies greatly depending on the type of unit, the capacity, the time it's operating and the efficiency rating. An air-conditioning unit might use anywhere from 200 to 1,800 kWh/month.

You can take some important steps to improve the efficiency of an air conditioner, including:

• Have a pro check the unit every year. Proper fluid levels, coolant charge and insulation are crucial to keep the device working efficiently.
• Close the vents in rooms you hardly ever use.
• Upgrade to a timed thermostat that will automatically switch off the AC as the temperature outside gets cooler.
• Make sure you have at least 16 inches (41 centimeters) of insulation in your attic. This will keep more of the sun's heat out of your living space so the AC doesn't have to work as hard.

You can also upgrade to a more efficient model or, on the other end of the spectrum, decide a little sweat might not be so bad for you after all.

Determine how many kWh per day an appliance uses with this formula:

You can find the wattage on the nameplate.

Or, just buy a watt meter like Kill A Watt .

Home Electricity Usage FAQ

What uses the most electricity in a home, does unplugging things save money, how can you reduce electricity usage, lots more information, related howstuffworks articles.

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• "Dehumidifier and Humidifiers." Responsible Energy. http://www.mge.com/images/PDF/Brochures/Residential/Dehumidifiers.pdf
• "Electricity explained." U.S. Energy Information Administration. Apr. 20, 2023. (Oct. 23, 2023). https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/electricity/use-of-electricity.php
• "Estimating Appliance and Home Electronic Energy Use. Energy Savers." U.S. Department of Energy. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/estimating-appliance-and-home-electronic-energy-use
• "How much electricity does an American home use?" U.S. Energy Information Administration. Oct. 20, 2023. (Oct. 23, 2023). https://www.eia.gov/tools/faqs/faq.php?id=97&t=3
• "Operating Costs of Household Appliances." Cornhusker Public Power District. https://cornhusker-power.com/?s=Operating+Costs+of+Household+Appliances
• "Residential energy consumption survey (RECS)." U.S. Energy Information Administration. (Oct. 23, 2023) https://www.eia.gov/consumption/residential/
• Minos, Scott. "3 Easy Tips to Reduce Your Standby Power Loads." U.S. Department of Energy Energy Saver. Feb. 9, 2022. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/articles/3-easy-tips-reduce-your-standby-power-loads
• "Net electricity consumption worldwide in select years from 1980 to 2022." Statista Research Department. Sep. 19, 2023. (Oct. 23, 2023). https://www.statista.com/statistics/280704/world-power-consumption/
• "Use of energy explained." U.S. Energy Information Administration. May 9, 2019. (Oct. 23, 2023). https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/use-of-energy/electricity-use-in-homes.php

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How a right-wing takeover of an obscure, unelected board in georgia could swing the election..

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At the Democratic National Convention, party officials are celebrating polls showing that Kamala Harris is now competitive with Donald Trump in every major swing state across the country.

But in one of those swing states, Republicans have laid the groundwork to challenge a potential Harris victory this fall, by taking over an obscure, unelected board.

Nick Corasaniti, a Times reporter who focuses on voting and elections, explains.

On today’s episode

Nick Corasaniti , a reporter covering national politics for The New York Times.

Background reading

The unelected body that shapes voting rules in Georgia has a new conservative majority, whose members question the state’s 2020 results. They now have new power to influence the results in 2024 .

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are in close races across Arizona, Georgia, Nevada and North Carolina , crucial swing states that Mr. Trump had seemed poised to run away with.

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

Fact-checking by Susan Lee .

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Michael Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson, Nina Lassam and Nick Pitman.

Nick Corasaniti is a Times reporter covering national politics, with a focus on voting and elections. More about Nick Corasaniti

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