October 26, 2017
As winter approaches, it’s good to remember that there are simple ways to reduce your electricity bill. Here are six easy things you can do that will help you save big.
1. ADJUST YOUR THERMOSTAT
Is the house empty during the week? Lower the temperature by a few degrees to avoid unnecessarily heating it. Do the same thing at night. Did you know that by replacing your mechanical thermostats with electronic ones, you could save between 15 and 20% in electricity costs? At the very least, install them in rooms where heat is needed the most.
2. CHANGE YOUR LIGHTS
Why not replace your incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs that are much more energy efficient? Choose ENERGY STAR certified light fixtures. Also, remember to turn off the light when you leave a room!
3. INSULATE DOORS AND WINDOWS
Are your doors and windows well insulated against the cold? An easy way to know is to place a candle near the frame. If the flame flickers, your doors and windows are poorly insulated. Properly caulked windows and doors will reduce your heating consumption.
4. SEAL ALL CRACKS
In addition to doors and windows, cold air may enter through cracks and openings such as electrical outlets and ceiling lights. Carefully check for cold air infiltrations and plug them up.
5. USE WATER SAVERS
Install low-flow shower heads and taps. By limiting the flow of hot water, you will save energy. Changing a few lifestyle habits can also be a cost-effective strategy, for example, by reducing the time spent in showers.
6. WASH WITH COLD WATER
When doing your laundry, set your washer to the cold-water setting. Your clothes will be just as clean and you will save money as well.
As you can see, there are many ways to reduce your electricity bill in the winter. If you are planning to purchase a property in the near future, verify the average monthly electricity costs to avoid unpleasant surprises. Your broker can provide you with more information on this subject.
https://www.centris.ca/en/blog/tips-and-advice/6-ways-to-reduce-your-electricity-bill