As the cost of living continues to rise, finding ways to save money is a top priority for many homeowners. The good news is that you don’t have to break the bank to make your home more energy efficient. With a few affordable – or even free – changes, you can reduce energy use at home and save on utility bills.
- Turn off lights
Get into the habit of switching off lights when you leave a room to help conserve energy throughout your home. Another option is to invest in affordable motion-activated lights that automatically turn on and off. - Seal air leaks
Use weatherstripping, caulking or draft stoppers to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping around windows, doors and electrical outlets. - Adjust thermostat settings
Lower the temperature when you’re away or asleep and raise it when needed. Consider investing in a smart thermostat to automate temperature adjustments based on your schedule. - Embrace natural lighting
Take advantage of natural light by keeping curtains and blinds open during the day. This not only brightens your space but also reduces the need for artificial lighting, saving energy and money. - Unplug electronics
Even when they’re turned off, electronics in standby mode can use energy. Unplug them when not in use, and use power strips to easily turn off multiple devices with a single switch. - Rearrange your furniture
Make sure furniture isn’t blocking air vents or radiant heating systems. Covered vents restrict airflow and force your HVAC system to work harder. By keeping vents clear, air can flow freely throughout your home. Leaving space around radiators allows the air to circulate properly. - Limit hot water use
Use cold water when doing laundry and take shorter showers when possible to reduce hot water use. You can also insulate your hot water tank and pipes to minimize heat loss. - Air dry laundry
Skip the dryer. Air dry your clothes when you can to save energy and extend the life of your wardrobe. - Run the dishwasher
Dishwashers are designed to be efficient, using less water and energy than hand-washing dishes. Fill it up before running a cycle to maximize efficiency. - Tap into local programs
Many electricity and gas providers offer programs to help customers reduce energy use at home. One example is the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus program, which offers Ontario homeowners up to $10,000 back for energy-efficient home upgrades, such as insulation, windows, doors and more. You can find more information or schedule a home energy assessment before doing updates at enbridgegas.com/herplus
