Climate Corner Feb. 2023 - Reduce the Cost of Heating Your Home

February: Reduce the Cost of Heating Your Home

Save money and help the environment!

Reducing electricity consumption has significant positive impacts on both your heating bill and the environment. Check out the tips and the linked resources below for easy-to-implement actions to benefit the environment and yourself.

1. Use electricity at off-peak times
   1. 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. is always the cheapest time to use energy. Run appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, and heaters during that time.
   2. Off-peak energy costs are less than 50% of peak costs since the provincial demand is lower at these times and power is generated through cleaner and cheaper energy sources. This means you could save up to 50% on your electricity bill and reduce your GHG emissions.
2. Improve your laundry routine.
   1. Using cold water in your washing machine can reduce electricity use by up to 90%.
   2. Using a dryer rack or clothesline to dry your clothes eliminates up to 6% of your home’s total energy use.  
3. Reduce your light electricity use.
   1. Switch to LED light bulbs which are 75%-90% more energy efficient than incandescent light bulbs.
   2. Turn the lights off in the daytime and use natural light when possible.
4. Heat your home better
   1. Change your furnace filter every three months to reduce energy usage in your furnace fan.
   2. Run your furnace on a schedule so that when you are not home, it is set to a lower temperature and is only running when needed. Don’t heat an empty home!
   3. Did you know that for every degree Celsius, you lower your thermostat for 8+ hours at night or, while away, you can save up to 2% on your heating bill?
5. If you are doing renovations – be energy conscious.
   1. When installing new windows or doors, purchasing new appliances or household basics such as water heaters or furnaces, ensure you buy quality products to reduce your home’s energy consumption.
   2. When installing insulation, ensure it is high quality and suitable for the extreme temperatures that climate change expects to bring.

Resources:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/how-use-less-electricity-home

https://www.saveonenergy.ca/en/For-Your-Home/Advice-and-Tips/12-ways-to-make-your-home-more-energy-efficient

https://globalnews.ca/news/2670317/can-smart-thermostats-really-help-save-money-on-your-energy-bill/

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