How to save money on your Hydro Bill
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Everybody wants to save money, and sometimes home items or appliances can cost us more than they should. We can save money and energy depending on the energy we use.
There are some actions we can take to help lower your energy bill and save you money:
- Did you know that for every degree above 20 degrees on the thermostat, Quebec Hydro says the cost of your hydro bill rises by 5 percent? Remember that heating your home costs about 60 percent of your annual hydro bill.
- Think about a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature to your schedule, so you never forget to adjust the temperature to save money.
- Air filters should be changed every three months to maintain excellent airflow and reduce costs. Did you know you need to change it sooner if you have a lot of people in your home or even pets?
- Changing the air filter will often remove excess dust, dirt, and pet dander and improve indoor air quality. A furnace tune-up will ensure your unit performs at its best and is ready for the winter season. Annual maintenance will help prevent heating emergencies and furnace breakdowns.
- Caulk and weatherstrip everywhere. Weatherstripping can be beneficial all year round. Sometimes there can be cold drafts coming in from your windows and doors. Weatherstripping is one way to insulate your home and fix the drafts, thus saving money on your hydro bill.
- It takes a lot of energy to pump, heat, treat and move water. If you use less water, you'll use less energy. BC Hydro says that turning off the water faucet while brushing your teeth, shaving, or washing your hands can reduce your energy. On average, a person uses 150 to 300 litres of water a day. You can lower water heating costs by using and wasting less hot water. Water heating is one of your more considerable energy expenses, accounting for about 18 percent of your utility bill.
- In 2019, the average person used 411 liters of water per day. Reducing our water usage is a step we can take to help conserve our Earth's water supply. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances and plumbing fixtures can save up to 30% of your water consumption.
- Installing water aerators will cut down your water consumption, and always be sure to check for leaks in your bathtubs, sinks, and toilets, as leaks can be costly to repair. Turning off the water while brushing will stop wasting water, and washing your laundry in cold water will also help save on energy costs as you won't have to heat the water to wash the laundry.
- Turning the lights off when you don't need them will help save energy. Using natural light where possible can also help. Using desk or table lamps provides a stronger, more focused light than the ceiling light that will diffuse the light. LED lights use 85 percent less energy than regular light bulbs.
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These tips are from Canada's biggest energy suppliers to reduce your energy bill. These suggestions can cut your energy bill in half and save you money.
By: Tricia Cook, Content Navigator