As we step into the new year, many of us are making resolutions to save money, live healthier, and reduce our environmental impact. One easy and practical way to tackle all three is by focusing on energy savings at home. Not only will you lower your monthly utility bill, but you’ll also shrink your carbon footprint. Here are some simple, effective ways to cut down on energy use this winter.
1. Let the Sun Shine In (for Free!)
Take advantage of sunny winter days by opening your curtains and blinds during daylight hours. The sun’s natural heat can help warm your home, reducing the need for your furnace to work overtime. At night, close the curtains to keep the heat in. This simple habit can reduce heating costs by up to 10% over the course of the winter.
2. Rearrange for Warmth
Got a couch blocking a vent or radiator? Time for a little furniture shuffle. Ensuring vents and radiators aren’t obstructed allows warm air to circulate freely throughout your home, making your heating system more efficient. Keeping your vents free and clear could cut your heating expenses by up to 5% per month.
3. Close Off Unused Rooms
If you have rooms that aren’t regularly used, close the vents and keep the doors shut. This prevents unnecessary heating and can lower your overall energy usage by up to 2%. It’s a small step that can lead to noticeable savings over time.
4. Lower the Temperature at Night
Turning down the thermostat by 3°C at night not only saves energy but can also improve sleep quality. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates you can save up to 5% annually on heating costs by lowering the temperature by 3-4 degrees for 8 hours a day. Consider cozying up with a warm blanket for an extra layer of comfort.
5. Install a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats make energy savings even easier by automatically adjusting the temperature based on your schedule. Set it to lower the heat when you’re at work or asleep, and warm things up just before you return home. This investment can pay for itself within two years, saving about 8-12% on heating costs annually.
Check out the Enbridge Smart Thermostat Incentive to learn more!
6. Replace or Clean Furnace Filters
A clogged or dirty furnace filter forces your heating system to work harder, using more energy. Make it a habit to check and replace filters every three months. This simple task can improve efficiency by up to 15%, saving you approximately $50-$100 per year.
7. Draft-Proof Your Home
Drafts from windows and doors can be significant energy-wasters. To check for leaks, hold a lit candle near window frames and door edges; if the flame flickers, you’ve found a draft. Sealing leaks with weather stripping or caulking can reduce energy use by up to 20%. For larger projects, the Durham Greener Homes Program offers incentives and rebates to make your home more energy-efficient. Visit Durham Greener Homes for more details on Home Winterproofing incentives.
8. Use Small Appliances for Cooking
Big ovens consume a lot of energy. Opt for smaller appliances like toaster ovens, slow cookers, or air fryers, which use significantly less electricity. Preparing meals this way can save you up to $50 over the winter months and you can create warm and delicious winter meals!
9. Wash Clothes in Cold Water
Heating water accounts for about 90% of the energy used by washing machines. By switching to cold water washes, you can cut your energy use for laundry by as much as 50%. This simple change could save you around $60 per year, depending on your household size and frequency of laundry.
10. Track Your Usage
Knowing what you use, and when you use it, is key to developing habits that work for you and help you save. Our MyOshawaPower online customer portal allows you to access detailed usage data for your home or business. Log in or sign up to start tracking your electricity usage and uncover ways to save!
By incorporating these simple changes, you can make your home more comfortable, save money, and contribute to a greener community. If you implement even a few of these tips, you could reduce your energy bills by up to 25% this winter — potentially saving hundreds of dollars over the course of the season. Consider making energy efficiency part of your New Year’s resolutions — your wallet (and the planet) will thank you!
