Saving on your electricity bill is not rocket science. In Quebec, temperature fluctuations greatly influence your electricity bill.
From heating to air conditioning, several factors influence the energy efficiency of our home. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce your electricity bill. We have collected some simple gestures for you that will make a big difference!
1. No more drafts
Whether it’s summer or winter, drafts of air can be responsible for a large part of your energy losses. Cracks make it difficult to maintain a stable interior temperature. In the end, we heat and cool more, to see our electricity bill go up.
To prepare your house for summer or winter, examine cracks, ceilings, holes and seal if necessary with a suitable product. Check the caulking on your doors and windows.
➡️ A little extra advice: In summer, there are several ways to keep your house cool without air conditioning. Read this article to learn more !
2. Check your bulbs
Have you thought about switching to energy-efficient light bulbs? Replace your halogen or incandescent bulbs with energy efficient ENERGY STAR® certified LED bulbs.
LED bulbs consume on average between 70 and 90% less energy! In addition, they have a lifespan of at least 15 years! They are durable and save you money.
If you already have energy-efficient bulbs, maximize their efficiency by cleaning them. A clean bulb produces a higher light output than a dirty bulb.
3. Give your electrical devices a break
Have you ever heard of phantom loads or invisible power consumption?
• Phantom load: Energy consumed by electronic or electrical devices when they are not running, but remain plugged into a power outlet.
" Phantom loads represent 5 to 10% of your electricity costs "
- Source: Hydro-Quebec
You can eliminate your phantom loads simply by unplugging the electronics you don't use. To make it even easier, plug devices that are near each other into a power strip that can be easily turned off.
You can calculate the phantom load of your home on the Hydro-Québec website.
4. Beware of hot water
" Water heating accounts for up to 20% of your annual electricity bill "
- Source: Hydro-Quebec
We advise you to always wash your laundry in cold water. Avoid long showers and reduce the frequency of your baths. Turn off the tap while you shave and brush your teeth. Start your dishwasher only when it is full.
In short, simple daily actions that are worth it!
5. Treat yourself with the best in energy efficiency
"Windows and doors can be responsible for up to 25% of a home's total heat loss. »
- Source: Government of Canada
If you have a construction or renovation project, consider double or triple glazed windows. This way, you maximize the insulation capacity of your home. During the winter, these glazings allow the sun’s rays (heat, light) to pass through, while in the summer, they filter the light, and block the heat coming from various external sources.
Your doors and windows can be repaired, but in some cases it is better to change to ENERGY STAR® certified models. Energy efficient windows and doors can save you up to 10% on your heating costs.
ENERGY STAR. What is it?
ENERGY STAR is a certification given, following several tests, to products that offer good energy efficiency. It is therefore a way for consumers to find energy-efficient products, easily.
Canada Grant for Energy Efficiency Renovations
To encourage energy conservation, the Government of Canada has implemented the Canadian Greener Homes Initiative.
Amounts offered by the grant:
• Grants from $125 to $5,000 to cover part of the cost of your eligible home renovations.
• Up to $600 to cover the costs of your EnerGuide evaluations before and after renovations.
• From $5,000 to $40,000 in an interest-free loan with a 10-year repayment period to help you make major home renovations.
Entrust the installation of your windows to Basco Windows and Doors
Whether you want to redo your caulking, repair or change your doors and windows for ENERGY STAR products, Basco takes care of it all! To maximize the efficiency of your doors and windows and to reduce your electricity bills, you need to call on the services of experts.
Our team of professionals can guide you in your steps towards an energy-efficient home. You just have to contact us, we will be happy to advise you.