Cut your home energy costs

February 10, 2011

With today’s rising energy costs, improving your home’s energy efficiency is good for both your wallet, and the environment.

In older homes increasing energy efficiency could reduce your energy costs up to 40 per cent. So if you’re thinking about renovating, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) has a wide variety of tips that can help you improve your comfort and health, improve durability and cut your monthly energy bills.

» Before you start, get a free copy of CMHC’s Renovating for Energy Savings to find ways of upgrading your home.

» Furnaces typically last about 15 to 20 years. When you’re ready to replace your older heating system, consider upgrading to a highly energy-efficient Energy Star-qualified model. It could reduce your heating bill by up to 20 per cent.

» Have your heating system regularly serviced to ensure energy efficiency and longevity.

» Install and use a set back thermostat to reduce energy use when you are not at home.

» Draft proof everywhere, including foundation walls, attic hatches and doors, around window and door frames, at ceiling penetrations, around light fixtures and wiring, and around service penetrations through exterior walls. Plus, seal the joint between the window frame and wall, and keep weather stripping and storm windows in good repair.

» If you own a fireplace or woodstove, replace any leaky dampers and repair chimney flues. Also consider switching to more energy-efficient options such as an electric fireplace insert, EPA-rated insert unit or direct-vent natural gas fireplace insert.

» Consider upgrading to more energy-efficient windows to prevent heat loss, greatly improve comfort levels and reduce maintenance needs.

» Replace and recycle older clothes washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, electric ranges and dishwashers with newer Energy Star rated models, and switch to energy-saving fluorescent, compact fluorescent and task lighting where possible.

CMHC is one of Canada’s national housing agency and a source of objective, reliable housing expertise. For more information or a free copy of the Before You Renovate guide to planning your next renovation project, call 1-800-668-2642 or visit cmhc.ca

Filed under: LIVING GREEN