It may shock you to know that your HVAC system could be a huge energy drainer in your home. Make sure you conduct regular maintenance and ensure it is working efficiently to avoid excessive energy consumption. Be sure to schedule an AC Tune-up in the spring and a Furnace Tune-up in the fall.

2. Programmable Thermostats

Also, consider investing in programmable thermostats that allow you to adjust the temperature automatically, and optimize energy usage when you are away or asleep. Ecobee has some great choices for programmable thermostats.

3. Sealing Air Leaks

Sealing air leaks in your home is another great way to improve energy efficiency. Holes in windows, doors and flooring can let out warm or cool air, leading to an increase in energy consumption as your HVAC system works overtime to maintain ideal temperatures.

4. Ceiling Fans for Rooms

Will a ceiling fan help cool a room? Yes, it will. Ceiling fans can create a draft, making the room feel cooler and allowing you to raise the thermostat and save on air conditioning. However, remember to turn them off when you leave the room, as fans cool people, not rooms. Implementing this little-known tip could potentially save you a great deal on your overall energy costs.

5. Change Furnace Filters

Replace the air filters regularly. Clogged or dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing the system to work harder, which increases energy consumption. Typically, filters should be changed every one to three months, depending on usage and environmental factors like pet dander and dust.

6. Check Ductwork

Leaky ducts can lead to significant energy losses. Have your ductwork inspected and repaired if necessary to ensure that as much warm or cool air as possible is delivered to your living spaces instead of being lost in unconditioned areas like attics or crawl spaces.

7. Ensure your Home has Proper Insulation

Much like the rest of the world, Canadian citizens too are taking strides towards energy conservation. Many energy saving tips in Canada are focused on heating, given the frigid winters. For Canadian homeowners, ensuring that their homes are thoroughly insulated is a top tip.

Good insulation will keep the warm air in and the cold air out, reducing the need for constant heating, and leading to significant energy savings. And when it comes to cooling in the summer months, strategies like using outdoor shading devices and energy-efficient cooling systems can go a long way.

8. Take Advantage of Government of Ontario Offers

Residents of Ontario specifically can take advantage of several programs aimed at promoting energy efficiency. The Ontario Energy Board, for instance, provides various resources and initiatives to help residents reduce their energy usage.

To Summarize

In summary, optimizing energy usage in your home isn’t just about using less. It’s about using it intelligently and making decisions that not only protect your wallet but the entire planet. These lesser-known energy-saving tips aren’t complicated or hard to implement, but they require a mindful approach to the way we use energy in our homes.

It’s clear now that the journey to reduced energy consumption involves more than just remembering to switch off the lights. It’s a comprehensive approach that entails investing in energy-efficient appliances, improving your home’s insulation, being smart with your HVAC system, and utilizing energy-saving programs offered by your local government.

As you implement these tips, remember that every little change adds up, and together, we can make a significant impact on energy conservation.

Be sure to checkout our article about saving energy with the windows of your home.