How to Save Energy as a Renter or Homeowner in the Winter
Winter in Canada brings cold temperatures and high energy bills, but whether you're a renter or homeowner, there are plenty of ways to save energy and reduce costs. Here’s a guide to help you navigate energy efficiency this season.
As a renter, you may have limited control over some aspects of your living space, but there are still many effective ways to cut down on energy use and lower your bills:
Energy-saving tips for renters
Avoid phantom power
Many appliances consume power even when they’re turned off but still plugged in. Unplugging devices like blenders, toasters, or TVs when they’re not in use can help prevent this "phantom power" consumption.
Switch off lights
It’s easy to forget to turn off the lights but switching them off in rooms you're not using can lead to surprisingly significant energy savings.
Upgrade to LED bulbs
LED bulbs use less energy and last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, making them a cost-effective option for renters. Plus, it’s easy to swap LED bulbs out and pack them along to your next place at the end of your lease.
Apply for the Canada housing benefit
This benefit can help lower-income renters manage the cost of living, including energy expenses during the winter months, and can be found online or through the Canadian government website.
Reduce laundry energy costs
Instead of using a dryer, have you considered an indoor laundry drying rack or line? This saves energy and reduces wear on your clothes. It works best when set up in a well-ventilated room with sufficient heating. If you need to use an in-suite dryer, you can also reduce costs by choosing a lower heat setting and dry time.
Choose energy-efficient appliances
While you probably can’t swap out your fridge or oven, you might be able to reduce energy consumption by upgrading your toaster, heated blanket, microwave, or TV. If possible, look for appliances with good energy ratings to help reduce your overall consumption.
Energy-saving tips for homeowners
Homeowners often have more options when it comes to making energy-efficient upgrades. Here are some key strategies to help reduce energy use during the winter:
Upgrade appliances
Consider replacing older appliances (especially refrigerators or washing machines) with energy-efficient models and run large appliances like dishwashers and washing machines in the evening, when energy rates may be lower.
Explore the Canada greener homes initiative and loan:
This program offers grants and advice for homeowners looking to make their homes more energy efficient. You could get up to $10,000 to cover costs for changing your oil heating system to a heat pump. A heat pump is an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating systems. It can lower your energy usage and cut costs over time.
The Canada Greener Homes Loan is interest-free and can help finance larger retrofits that improve your home’s energy efficiency, like setting up solar panels on your roof.
Both of these programs are available to homeowners across Canada, regardless of the province or territory.
Get energy efficient retrofits
Home retrofits, such as better insulation, upgraded windows, and more efficient heating systems, can make a big difference in energy consumption.
Manage heating and cooling
Instead of cranking up the heat, consider layering up in warmer clothes and keeping your home at a slightly cooler temperature. This simple change can lead to energy savings.
It’s also a good idea to check your furnace. Having a professional inspect and maintain your furnace can help ensure it’s running efficiently during the winter.
Check insulation, ducts, and drafts
Ensure your home is well-insulated by checking for drafts around windows, doors, and other openings. Sealing any cracks or leaks can prevent heat loss. Leaky ductwork can also waste heat, so make sure your ducts are properly sealed to keep warm air circulating efficiently.
Optimize laundry cycles
Wash clothes using warm or cold water instead of hot and consider using a laundry drying rack indoors to avoid energy-hungry dryers. It’s also a good idea to run the cycle in the evening, during low-energy consumption hours, to reduce your monthly bill.
Switch to LED lights
Just like renters, homeowners can benefit from the long-lasting, low-energy usage of LED bulbs throughout their home.
By making even small changes, renters and homeowners can both enjoy a more energy-efficient and cost-effective winter. Whether it’s upgrading appliances, sealing drafts, or simply turning off the lights, these strategies can help you save energy and reduce your bills.
