With summer a fond memory, the time has come again to get ready for Winter. With increased energy costs, here are a few tips to save money and help the environment in the process.

Use Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs. They use 50 – 80% Less energy than incandescent bulbs.

Programming your Thermostat to drop 2 degrees at night and while you are out can save up to $150 a year on your energy costs.

HVAC. Getting a tune up on your furnace and AC every 2 years can save you 5% to 10%.
Optomize your water heater by putting an insulated jacket over it and then turn the heat down to 49 degrees Celsius. This will save energy and reduce the chance of scalding.

Purchase Energy Efficient Appliances. When it comes time to replace your appliances, look for ones with the energy star rating. You will save 10-30% on operating costs.
Repair Leaky Fixtures. One drop per second from a leaky faucet can waste as mush as 10 gallons of water each week

Install low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets. Low-flow faucets reduce water consumption and the cost of heating water by as much as 50 percent

Did you know that if you live in Ontario you can get up to $10,000 in rebates for retrofitting your home to make it more energy efficient? To find out more click this link for the Ontario Home Energy Audit.

For more tips on Home energy efficiency visit http://www.jeffoleary.ca/