Conservation Tips
Be comfortable, not cold
For each degree your air conditioner is set below 24° C (75° F), you'll use 3 to 5 per cent more energy. If you set your thermostat at 25°C (77° F), can be comfortable and save energy.
Also, don't set your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you first turn on your air conditioner. It won't cool your home any faster and could well waste energy.
Turn off the power
What's a "hidden load"?
Did you know that even though you may not have an electronic device on, if it is being plugged in it is still using electricity? It's called 'Hidden Loads' and it's a small amount of electricity that seeps out into electronic devices when plugged in. So, if you're not using it, either unplug it, or turn of your power bars!
Avoid the draft
Are you in favour of saving as much as 30% a year on your heating costs? Okay then, now's the time to act. Check around the house and fix any drafts you find, including gaps around fireplace dampers, attic hatches, air conditioners and doors. See? Nothing to it.
Cooking with gas
Barbecuing has benefits besides great taste. One, you're cooking with propane (or charcoal), not electricity, so you're easing the strain on the grid. And two, you're not heating up the kitchen (which may well be plenty hot enough already).
Energy Star® label
Look for the ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR is a program designed to help you identify energy-efficient appliances and products. It's better for your environment, your budget, and your peace of mind.
Doors are weather barriers too
When we think of insulation, often the first thing that comes to mind is attics and doors. But there are other ways to insulate our homes. For instance, a hollow outside door will only provide limited insulation value; a metal clad insulated door will be much more effective.
Watch your heat levels
Do you really need it hotter than 20º in the house? After all, heating costs rise about 5% for every degree above 20º C (68º F) that you set the thermostat. And when you think about it, curling up in a polar fleece blanket is so much cosier, isn't it?
