Home Energy Hacks

• Close Your Blinds on Hot Summer Days

  Did you know closing your blinds or curtains during the day in the summer can block up to 65% of the heat that enters your home through windows? This will make your home more comfortable and reduce the need for your air conditioner to work as hard, which saves money on cooling costs.

• Change Your Air Filter Seasonally

  Did you know you should change your furnace air filter approximately every three months and even more frequently when there are high levels of smoke?  Air filters improve air quality, protect your furnace blower, and can prolong your furnace's lifespan.  

• Use a Programmable Thermostat

  Use your thermostat's features to heat or cool your home as needed. With a programmable thermostat, you can set it and forget it so you are not constantly adjusting the temperature setting. 

  It is recommended that you set your temperature to the following to maximize on energy savings:

  Summer:
  25°C - the higher the temperature, the more energy you will save

  Winter:
  21°C - when you are reading or watching TV
  20°C - when you are working around the home
  16°C - when you are away from the home or sleeping

• Wash Your Clothes in Cold Water

  Did you know that 90% of the energy used by the washing machine is used to heat water? Most detergents work well in cold water. Try it out—your wallet will thank you.

• Keep Your Dryer Door Closed When Not in Use

  When your dryer door is open, outside air can get in. Closing your dryer door when not in use is like sealing a leak–it will keep the cold air out in winter and the hot air out in summer.

• Set Your Water Tank to the Right Temperature

  Did you know it is recommended that your hot water tank be set to 49°C (120°F)? This temperature should be just right and will prevent the growth of harmful bacteria such as Legionella. 

• Caulk Your Window and Door Frames

  Small holes that we can’t always see can add up to huge air loss. By sealing these cracks, you can save on heating and cooling costs.

• Draft-Proof Your Electrical Outlets

  A simple foam gasket in an electrical outlet can reduce air leakage from your home. It will help keep the hot air out in summer and the cold air out in winter. You'll be more comfortable indoors and save money at the same time. 

• Weatherstrip Your Doors and Windows

  Sealing leaks around doors and windows will help enhance your home's performance. With improved overall thermal comfort, you'll save energy and money.

• Get a Home Energy Assessment

  Want some help understanding your home's energy performance? A home energy assessment will determine the best place to start with your home energy upgrades. Bonus—a home energy assessment allows for more opportunities to access additional rebates.

• Hang Your Laundry to Dry Year-Round

  Did you know your dryer is the biggest energy-consuming appliance in your home (after your refrigerator, since it is on all the time)? Hanging clothes to dry will lower your energy bill and prolong the life of your clothing. Summertime bonus—avoiding using the dryer in the summer will help keep your home cool.

• Tune Up Your Heating System

  Regular maintenance is important to make sure your equipment is working properly, and a well-maintained furnace will ensure you don't get stuck in the cold. 

• Close Your Blinds on Cold Winter Nights

  Closing your blinds or curtains at night in the winter keeps the warm air in and the cold air out. This simple step before bed can save on heating costs and make your home more comfortable.