Energy Savings Tips
Lighting can account for up to 10 per cent of your electricity costs, and it’s easy to overlook, especially during the longer nights of winter. So, taking that extra step to turn off lights when not in use can make a real difference.
Energy savings can add up in more significant ways with three simple changes to your laundry routine: running the washer on cold, hanging your laundry on a drying rack or throwing a dry towel in the dryer to help your clothes dry faster.
EnergyStar® certified LED bulbs use 90 per cent less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. As old bulbs burn out, replace them with LEDs, which, in addition to using less power, also last 15x longer than incandescent bulbs.
Standby power can add up to 5 to 10 per cent of an average home’s electricity use. Unplug electronics when not in use and you can translate that 10 per cent to savings you can use for something else.
Turn off the heat dry function on your dishwasher and let your dishes air dry. At the end of the wash cycle, open the dishwasher door and you’ll be surprised by how fast the moisture evaporates. Doing this can cut dishwasher energy use 15 to 50 per cent.
Natural Gas Savings Tips
Over time, any home will develop gaps that let cold air in and warm air escape. Sealing up obvious areas around windows, or adding weather-stripping around exterior doors, can help save up to 30 per cent on your heating use.
Heating accounts for 63 per cent of home energy use—and even a difference of two degrees (from 20 to 22) can add up. On cold days, it might be tempting to set your thermostat high, but your home won’t heat up quicker.
Make the sun work for you in winter by opening your blinds and curtains during the day. This will allow the sun’s energy to help heat your home and take some of the load off your furnace.
Even though it can increase your electricity use, selective use of a space heater is a better way than heating your whole home if you’re only typically in one room.
Take a look around your house and make sure that furniture, rugs or other items have not been placed over your vents. Air flow is one key for heating efficiency.
Too much humidity can actually make you feel colder because the moisture draws heat away from your body. If you use a humidifier, keep humidity between 30 to 40 per cent, which should keep you comfortable.
Content Courtesy of ENMAX
