Save Money, Save Power
Most people will agree that conserving energy is one way to save some money. The question is, do people realize just how easy it is to conserve and how drastically they can lighten their bill? There are dozens of no-cost and low-cost steps that can be taken to reduce household energy consumption. Check out some of the great ways you can make your home more affordable and a little easier on the planet.
Low-Cost Options (under $50)
| Option | Savings/Year* |
|---|---|
| Replace three old-style 60W light bulbs with 14W compact fluorescent (CFLs) | $21 |
| Replace five strings of incandescent holiday lights with LED strings | $16 |
| Install aerators on two of your most frequently used faucets | $6 |
| Install one low-flow showerhead | $19 |
| Seal exterior walls, doors and windows against cold drafts | $8 |
| Replace your halogen torchiere (floor lamp) with a CFL torchiere | $32 |
| Install a motion sensor on a main outdoor light | $3 |
| Install an insulating blanket on an older water heater | $12 |
| Install a programmable thermostat to automatically turn down the heat by 4-5C at night and when not home | $66 |
No-Cost Options
| Option | Savings/Year* |
|---|---|
| Turn off two 60W lights for one hour a day when not in use | $4 |
| Switch off your computer when not in use | $14 |
| Wash clothes in cold water twice a week | $40 |
| Hang two loads of laundry to dry per week | $43 |
| Turn down the heat by 4-5C at night and when not at home | $66 |
| Set your thermostat 1C lower during heating hours | $33 |
| Skip the heat-dry feature on your dishwasher three times per week | $9 |
| Set your fridge to 4C if it is now at 3C | $3 |
| Turn off TV for one hour per day when not in use | $14 |
| Unplug two chargers when the devices are not charging | $3 |
| Get rid of an old second fridge through BC Hydro’s Refrigerator Buy-Back Program (Includes $30 rebate and free pick-up) | $129 |
| Turn off a video game console when not in use | $17 |
| Replace an incandescent nightlight with a LED model | $4 |
| Shorten your shower time by a minute | $23 |
Additional Money Savers:
Install ceiling fans to circulate both warm and cool air.
- In the summer set fans to blow cooling air downwards.
- In the winter, set fans to blow upwards to better circulate warm air around the room.
When buying a new computer, go for a laptop.
- Laptops are used almost 90 per cent less energy than desktop models.
If you are buying a new TV, consider and LCD.
- With normal usage, it is generally accepted that LCD’s are more energy efficient than plasmas.
- Make sure your new TV bears the ENERGY STAR logo.
- Be sure to maximize the savings by plugging your new TV into a power bar – then switch it off when not in use.
Landscape with comfort in mind.
- Planting leafy trees helps shade and cool your home in the summer and once the leaves fall off in the winter, lets in sunlight to keep your home cozy and warm.
Replace that old furnace with a highly efficient variable-speed furnace.
- New furnaces are designed to optimize your electricity consumption, whether they are cooling, heating or ventilating your home.
Let the sun shine in.
- In the winter, open your curtains or blinds during the day and let the sun heat your home naturally.
Let BC Hydro help you save.
- When updating your clothes washer, fridge or freezer, choose one that is ENERGY STAR certified and receive a rebate from BC Hydro.
- There is also plenty of opportunity to save by updating your light fixtures.
* Estimated cost savings
Credit: BC Hydro