by 12 Easy Fixes That Can Help Save You Money On Energy Costs.
Energy, power, electricity. That which provides light, heat and runs machines and systems. However we describe it, we all need it, and we know it comes at a cost. So then, why should we waste any more of it? The average residential monthly energy consumption is 753 kWh, which can be loosely translated to $2,400/year for a typical home in Ontario. Building constructed to high-performance standards like NRCAN’s R-2000 standard use 50% less energy than a traditional house, a significant difference! So besides using power in off-peak hours, which can actually save you money, what else can we do to help our existing homes perform better without major retrofits?
Here are some tips experts recommend to save energy, increase indoor comfort and save a little cash. I know that’s really why you’re reading this – TELL ME HOW!!
AND THE EXPERTS SAY…
Start At The Top
1 -The attic – A significant amount of your home’s heating and cooling is lost through the roof. Adding or upgrading insulation in the attic is a cost-effective way of keeping in the heat. A small investment can save you cash in the long run by reducing the energy it takes to heat or cool your space. When there is insufficient insulation in the attic, upper-floor rooms can feel colder and less comfortable in terms of temperature. Adding insulation can help balance the temps in those areas. Saving money while maintaining the comfort of the indoor environment! It’s a win-win!
Windows & Doors
2 – Purchasing new windows and doors can be a considerable expense so, sealing up those drafty windows and doors is a simpler solution. Over time, existing caulk around windows can degrade, letting in unwanted cold air. Seal up drafty window frames with easy-to-use rope caulk. It won’t last forever, but it will help keep the air in or out for an extended period of time. Replace or add weather stripping on windows and doors. A door sweep installed at the base of a door will prevent the intrusion of air. Insulating shrink film is another easy install on windows and can further protect against drafts during colder months. Finally, solar curtains can be used to help minimize the amount of heat that escapes a room in the winter and reduces solar gain in the summer, neat!
Efficient Lighting
3 – Replace old light bulbs in the home with ENERGY STAR Certified LED bulbs, which use 90% less energy than incandescent light bulbs and can last up to 15 times longer. They usually come with a performance warranty too. Just remember, If purchasing “smart” LED bulbs, they are network enabled and will continue using power even when off. Rather than placing smart bulbs in every room of the house, use them in rooms like the kitchen or living room, and not in less frequented rooms like guest rooms.
Outlets & Chargers
4 – Anything plugged in, whether on or off uses power. Unplug electronics in guest rooms or areas of the home that are less visited. Even phone chargers that are left plugged in and not charging a phone use energy so, unplug those chargers folks! Advanced power bars can help save electricity in areas that use an abundance of electronics like the living room. Plug the TV into the master socket of the power bar and plug all other devices used alongside the TV into the slave sockets. When you turn off the TV, the smart power bar cuts power to the devices plugged into the slave sockets, automatically saving energy and reducing your electricity costs. Power bars on timers set to shut down small kitchen appliances during periods of no use further reduces wasted energy.
Heating & Cooling Management
5 – Invest in a Smart thermostat. ENERGY STAR Certified smart thermostats can help reduce energy consumption by learning your favorite temperatures and then establishing a schedule to automatically adjust to energy-saving temperatures while sleeping or away. You can also control your heating and cooling with a computer or smartphone which tracks your consumption. Managing your heating and cooling can help you optimize its usage which makes you more comfortable while saving you money.
Water Heating
6 – Water heating takes energy. Insulate those hot and cold water pipes in the utility room with foam sleeves or insulating wrap. If purchasing new systems makes sense for you, a tankless gas water heater is a good place to start. It uses 30% less energy since it heats water only when needed.
Junction Boxes
7 – Have you ever felt cold air coming in from around an electrical outlet or light switch? Lights and outlets are mounted in junction boxes that sit in 3″x 5″ holes in the wall that are often not air sealed. Most older homes have a lot of cold air moving through the walls. Installing foam insulation gaskets behind electrical outlet faceplates and light switches can reduce the amount of air coming in or going out. One step further would be to seal the junction boxes before using the foam gaskets but be sure to consult professionals when working around electricity. There’s always a risk of electrocution and fire if sealed or handled improperly. Stick to the foam gaskets as an easy DIY.
Ventilation
8 – Make sure heating, cooling, and ventilation ducts running through basements, crawl spaces, or unheated attics are sealed and insulated. Leaking ducts can mean higher heating bills. You can seal ducts with aluminum foil, duct tape, or approved plastic tape. When it’s time, a professional can make sure your ductwork is properly placed and the right size. Undersized ductwork and improperly placed cold air returns can translate into higher heating bills and an uncomfortable indoor environment.
Clean & Dust Free
9 – Keeping large appliances clean and dust free helps them perform better and use less energy. When vents at the back of a refrigerator or clothes dryer get clogged with dust their motors work harder and thus use more energy. Vacuuming large appliances a few times a year could save you money. If you choose to buy new, it’s always wise to look at ENERGY STAR Certified appliances.
Drying racks & Clotheslines
10 – Indoor drying racks or outdoor clotheslines are the ultimate way to save energy in the laundry room because you’re utilizing the power of the sun or air to dry your clothes. If you must use the dryer, keeping it lint-free will keep it performing efficiently. A clogged lint trap and dryer duct will restrict airflow and reduce performance, making the dryer work harder than it has to dry your clothes. On the bright side, did you know that UV rays keep whites looking whiter? It’s true, so get those whites outside to dry!
Maintenance
11 – Tend to your furnace. If you have an older furnace it’s important to have it serviced and cleaned to make sure it is performing at its best. Change filters every 3 months or more often if you have pets to ensure that air moves easily into the unit helping to prolong its life. Just an FYI, replacing an older furnace with an ENERGY STAR Certified gas furnace can reduce your energy bills by up to 40%. There are currently programs offering rebates to individuals seeking to replace their furnaces. See below for links.
A No Brainer
12 -When you have the light of day, turn off those lights. Can anyone else still hear their parents shouting ” How many times do I have to tell you to turn the lights off?” – I can!
If You Want A More Significant Way To Save
Canada’s commitment to reduce its Green House Gas (GHG) emissions to 40 – 45 % below 2005 levels by 2030, has led to programs and grants incentivizing Canadians to make energy-related changes to their homes. Money for new systems or equipment is a barrier for many Canadians. Since 78% of building emissions come from space and water heating equipment, these incentives are needed to entice individuals to make some changes. If you are ready to make big changes to your home or its systems, please follow the links below for additional information. If small changes are on the horizon for you then I hope the suggestions found in this article will help! Remember little changes can add up to big savings! Good Luck everyone.
Programs and Incentives for Homeowners
https://www.enbridgegas.com/residential/rebates-energy-conservation/home-efficiency-rebate-plus?
https://saveonenergy.ca/en/About
The less you burn, the more you earn!
Today’s wastage is tomorrow’s shortage.
Burn fossil fuels today, become a fossil tomorrow!
mikhel