Ten ways to save energy

With energy costs on the rise, Canadian homeowners are looking for ways to save on their energy bills. The following are some easy ways to help save money:

Plug the Drafts

The exterior of your house is your first line of defence against drafts, so it's important to caulk, seal and weather-strip around all seams, cracks and openings. Be sure to pay special attention around windows and where siding or bricks and wood trim meet. You can also reduce drafts by caulking around the inside of windows.

Add a layer to your attic insulation

Many Canadians use blown-in insulation in their attics to keep heat from escaping, but yearly check-ups are important to ensure that insulation is evenly distributed and proper ventilation is maintained. Up to 15% of your home's energy is lost through the attic and much like a toque, during colder months, insulation and sealing keeps heated air from escaping outside. Think PINK and make sure the attic is the first place you insulate.

Add insulation to other areas of the home

It is a simple equation: add FIBERGLAS or FOAM insulation to reduce energy usage and increase comfort. Supplementing the insulation in your crawl space, under floors and against basement walls is a great way to moderate the transfer of heat through the exterior of your house.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Why heat the house when nobody's home? A programmable thermostat can automatically lower and raise your home's air temperature when you're at work or comfortably nestled under a comforter. For every 1C (2F) you lower your thermostat, you save 2% on your heating bill. A reduction of 3C (5F) at night and when you are away during the day provides optimal savings.*

Turn on the Humidifier

Adding moisture to the air in your home will make it feel warmer. If your furnace doesn't have a built-in humidifier, you can place a portable unit in frequently used areas. Make sure the humidistat settings are appropriate for outdoor temperatures so that condensation does not build up on windows.

Let the Sun Shine In

On those cold winter days, fill your home with the warmth of the sun's rays by raising the blinds and shades on windows on the south and west sides of your house.

Close Vents to Guest Rooms

By closing the vents to just one spare bedroom in your house, you'll likely see a difference in your heating bills. But don't put away your welcome mat - you can open the vents when guests stay over. Be sure to monitor closed-off rooms to ensure that moisture doesn't build up in corners or closets.

Insulate Pipes

It is no secret that insulated hot water pipes reduce heat loss. As a result, your water heater will not have to work as hard since less hot water is needed to achieve the same temperature.

Install Energy Efficient Doors and Windows

Newer windows with Low-E coatings and insulated doors are designed to be more energy-efficient and when properly installed, leaks and drafts are minimized.

Clean and Inspect Central Heating Equipment

It is a good idea to have your furnace and ductwork evaluated before the start of each heating season. The cleaner and more efficient they are, the more you'll enjoy energy savings.

With a few simple renovations and regular household maintenance, homeowners can achieve significant savings on their energy bills.

Andy Goyda is an Energy Efficiency Expert and an Area Sales Manager based in Ontario for Owens Corning Canada, the makers of PINK FIBERGLAS & Foam insulation. Owens Corning PINK insulation products are certified by the GREENGUARD Environmental Institute to meet strict indoor air quality standards. For more information, visit www.owenscorning.ca.