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Direct Energy’s Efficiency Tips

According to a recent survey of Canadians by Direct Energy, 86% of Canadians say that saving money motivates them to make their home more energy efficient, while 49% cite saving the planet as their motivation. According to Dave Walton, Director of Home Ideas at Direct Energy "There are a number of simple ways to make your home more energy efficient, whether you want to do it to save money or help the environment."

Below are a few simple actions you can take towards making your home more energy efficient.

  • Install a programmable thermostat and turn it up during the day when nobody is home, and at night when outdoor temperatures are cooler. By raising the thermostat’s temperature by five degrees Celsius at night, homeowners could save 10 per cent on their energy bill.
  • Upgrade to newer, high efficiency appliances and cooling systems - central air conditioning units that meet 13 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) requirements will deliver as much as 28 per cent more efficiency than that of an older, 10 SEER air conditioner.
  • Keep the outdoor air conditioner coil clear of toys, dirt, and grass clippings and carefully clean it with a garden hose. Keep flowers and shrubs a minimum of two feet away from the air conditioner.
  • To keep the central air conditioner working at optimum level, keep top of the unit unobstructed.
  • Top up the insulation in the attic. Just a five percent saving in energy costs can save up to $20 to $70 per year.
  • Consider installing ceiling fans - which are more energy efficient than turning on the air conditioner - to maximize air circulation and move the fresh air throughout the home. Ceiling fan blades should move the air downwards in the summer and upwards in the winter.
  • Up to 30 per cent of a home’s heating and cooling costs can be lost through poorly fitted windows and doors. Caulk and weather strip around windows and doors or upgrade to new, more energy efficient windows to reduce energy consumption. Weather stripping and caulking to seal air leaks can save homeowners approximately $150 per year on their energy bill.
  • A home energy assessment can help identify areas where your home can be more energy efficient. You may even qualify for a federal or provincial rebate if you implement the suggested changes.
  • Keep blinds, carpets and furniture free of the vents, so your cooling system can operate efficiently and provide even air distribution. Close vents in less used rooms so you are not spending money cooling those spaces.
  • Set family kilowatt goals for lowering home energy consumption and track from month-to-month, and year over year. Celebrating successfully achieving goals is another incentive to get everyone involved with conservation.

Are you interested in learning more about home efficiency and speaking with an expert, click here to meet our team.

Direct Energy offers energy efficiency tips for all seasons for you home or business. Please view or download the documents below.

 
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