Energy Savings Tips

Heating

At 50% of your energy bill, heating is the single largest use of energy in most homes. You can take measures to improve your heating and control systems, and reduce heat loss so less heating is required.

Heating System

• A dirty furnace filter delivers less air. Ensure yours is clean.
• Avoid heating uninsulated spaces such as a garage, crawlspace, attic or storage shed.
• Close the fireplace chimney damper between fires to keep warm air in during the winter and out during the summer.
• Avoid heating unused rooms by closing doors and warm air supply registers, or lower the room thermostat for baseboards.

Thermostats

• By setting the thermostat back when you are not home or overnight, you can save 5 to 10% on your annual energy bill, depending on your climate and the degree/duration of setback.

Recommended thermostat settings:
- Sitting, reading or watching TV 21°C (70°F)
- Working around the house 20°C (68°F)
- Sleeping 18°C (64°F)
- Away from home 16°C (61°F)

• By automatically raising and lowering temperatures to preset levels, programmable thermostats offer convenience, comfort and energy savings. If you have another type of thermostat, consider replacing it with a programmable one.
• Remember to manually over-ride your programmable thermostat when you go away, or to turn it down anytime you depart from the programmed schedule.

Live in an apartment?

• Apartments are more sheltered due to common walls, so if you live in an apartment you could set the thermostat as low as 10° C (50° F) if you go away, as long as there are no water pipes in exterior walls that could be subject to freezing.
• Gas firelog or decorative fireplaces are not as efficient as your main heating system. If you don't use yours often, consider shutting off the pilot light, as it is costing you money to leave it on.

This page last updated 2012-02-06.