Waterloo Region Record

How to save (even more) money on energy costs

- News Canada

As the colder months approach, you'll be looking for ways to keep your home warm. This is a great opportunit­y to look at ways to save on energy costs this fall and winter. Here are some ways to stay warm while improving your energy efficiency: Smart thermostat­s. Turn your thermostat down when you're not at home. Another way to better manage your energy use is installing a smart thermostat, which uses sensors and Wi-Fi to “adapt” to your schedule and preference­s. Energy-saving renovation­s. It's not too late to get those last-minute energy upgrades finished – they can save you money in the long run and improve your home

environmen­t. Clean or replace filters. Your furnace's air filter should be cleaned or replaced every three months. When the filter is clogged or dirty it restricts airflow, causing your furnace to work harder to heat your home. Keep spaces around vents clear. Keep furniture, drapes, rugs and other items away from air vents to allow heat to flow and circulate efficientl­y.

Eliminate drafts. Keep the heat inside your home by sealing cracks and other openings that allow air to escape. Prepare your home for the cold months ahead by caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows. Foam gaskets and childproof sockets can also help close spaces,

preventing heat from escaping. Check out rebate programs and

incentives. Enbridge offers several options to get money back when you make energy upgrades within your home. For example, buy a qualifying smart thermostat to get $100 back, or get $1600 back when you complete certain energy-saving upgrades and a home energy audit. If you qualify for their free Home Winterproo­fing Program, you could receive new insulation and draft proofing installed by experience­d profession­als, which can reduce your energy use by up to 30 per cent.

Find more informatio­n at enbridgega­s.com/rebates.

 ??  ?? There are many ways a homeowner can save on energy costs, beginning with a sound layer of insulation. Check on what rebates may apply to your improvemen­ts.
There are many ways a homeowner can save on energy costs, beginning with a sound layer of insulation. Check on what rebates may apply to your improvemen­ts.

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