10 tips for home energy savings

GTA homes are being constructed to very high energy-efficiency standards

One of the programs that provides incentives to developers for designing and building homes that achieve 25 per cent more energy efficiency than required by the 2012 Ontario Building Code is Enbridge’s Savings by Design. The tactics used result in lower energy bills for homeowners by 25 per cent, putting more money in their pocket.

“It’s great that builders are building homes that are so much more energy efficient than the current building code requires,” says Shannon Bertuzzi, manager of residential energy solutions for Enbridge Gas Distribution. “But if the new owner isn’t going to maintain it, then the point is lost.”

Once the keys are handed over, new homeowners can take steps to ensure their homes perform the way they were intended – with efficiency and longevity.

Even in the most energy-efficient houses, there are still things owners can do to reduce energy use and lower energy bills.

Seal it up

Fill cracks around windows with caulking or weather stripping to minimize heat loss.

Shower less

Reducing your session by a minute or two can make a big difference in energy consumption.

Upgrade

Install energyefficient showerheads so you’ll use less gas to heat your water.

Fix leaks

One drop of hot water per second for a month adds up to 16 steamy baths, Enbridge notes.

Close the damper

Keep the damper on your wood fireplace closed when it’s not in use; this helps control heat loss. Or get a gas one.

Wash cold

You don’t need hot water to clean laundry; and energy savings from using cold water can be significant.

Run a full dishwasher

Use the energy saver cycle if it has one.

Heat less

Set your thermostat at 20°C (68°F) by day and 17°C (62.6°F) at night. Use a programmable thermostat to do it for you.

Replace furnace filters

Do it every three months, and keep vents and air returns free of obstructions. If it’s a clunker, replace your entire furnace.

Power down

Install energy-saving light bulbs, and unplug electronic devices you’re not using, especially when you go on vacation.