Spring
Spring is a good time to prepare your year-round plan to reduce your energy consumption.
The key to a realistic energy savings program is to keep it simple to start: make a list of the easy improvements you can do by yourself at little expense.
While you’re at it, note the major energy saving jobs that are long-term and may require expert help, such as replacing windows.
Checklist
- Walk around the house and look for any winter damage to window caulking and sealing.
- Hot weather is on the way so make sure your air conditioner is serviced and ready to go.
- If you have central air conditioning, seal the seams of accessible furnace ducting with duct tape to ensure more cooled air reaches its destination.
- Use a ceiling or portable fan when you’re in a room and turn it off when you leave. Remember, fans are meant to cool people, not rooms.
- Check outdoor lighting fixtures for winter damage. Clean fixture covers and confirm you are using energy efficient bulbs.
- Install motion sensor lights or programmable timers for outdoor lights.
- Vacuum the condenser coils on your refrigerator and freezer.
- Turn off the power at the panel and vacuum lint from the clothes dryer motor, drum and exhaust hose.
- Clean or replace furnace filters.
- Hang laundry on the clothesline instead of using the dryer.
For more information visit your local electric utility website at www.opuc.on.ca, www.veridian.on.ca, or www.whitbyhydro.on.ca.
