Doors and Windows
Did you know that 30% of your home's heat is lost through your doors and windows? This is mainly caused by the heat loss through the glass, wood, and framing materials. Help reduce your heating costs by installing Energy Star windows and doors to help lower your energy bills by 12%. Window drapes and coverings can be used over windows to help reduce heat loss, opening them up during days to let in the sun's heat in and allow air circulation to get to the glass to reduce condensation problems. Make sure to weatherstrip exterior doors on the sides, top and bottom.
Insulation
Good insulation is the key to an energy-efficient home. Insulating your attic and your basement can be the key factor in helping you reduce your energy bill. The attic has low heat loss, about 10-15%, but it should be the first place to consider when adding more insulation. An unfinished basement has a high heat loss, 20-25%, which should motivate you to add exterior or interior insulation.
Weatherstripping and Caulking
This is one of the cheapest and most effective way to reduce your home's heat loss and make it more energy-efficient. Look for cracks in your walls and foundation; windows and doors; fireplace dampers and bricks; and any other holes where electrical, plumbing or gas lines go through external walls.
Tankless Hot Water Heater
Water heaters are the second largest energy user in houses, after home heating. Installing a tankless hot water heater would warm your water only when needed, instead of keeping the water constantly hot, saving you up to 50% on your energy bills. There are two options of tankless hot water heaters: gas-powered (which are larger than electric, but needs a gas line in order to be installed) or electric (they are less expensive to purchase and operate, and are hardwired to your circuit breaker).
Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
Saving energy and money is as easy as screwing in a light bulb. CFLs use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs, and last up to 10 times longer.
Dimmer Switches
If you have not switched to CFLs yet, installing dimmer switches now with your incandescent light bulbs can save on the amount of energy that is emitted.
Programmable Thermostats
Programmable thermostats allow you to pre-program temperature settings for when you are away or asleep, helping you reduce your energy consumption by 1% for every 1°C over a seven-hour period each day.
Energy Star Appliances
Look for the Energy Star label when purchasing any new appliance, as those that are 10-50% efficient have been approved and given the international stamp of approval.
