Energy efficiency. Good for smaller footprints.
By FortisBC PowerSense
As the leaves fall and temperatures dip, you might find yourself wanting to turn on the heat to take the bite out of that chilly Fall morning. But did you know that space heating accounts for about 49 per cent or your home’s total energy use? This winter you can minimize heat loss and save on your energy bills by following some of our no-cost and low-cost energy saving tips.
· Have your furnace and/or heat pump serviced by a licensed professional. A proper service will ensure it’s working safely and as efficiently as possible. Better yet, FortisBC PowerSense is offering a $50 heat pump service rebate until October 31, 2013.
· Check furnace filters once a month and clean or replace if necessary.
· If your home has a heat recovery ventilator (HRV) check the filters every two months.*
· If your basement is unfinished, inspect ductwork to ensure it’s in good shape and the joints are tightly sealed using either aluminum tape or mastic.
· If you have any exposed water supply lines, insulate them with foam pipe wrap.
· Check the caulking on both the exterior and interior side of the windows. If it’s cracked, shrinking or peeling, it’s time to replace it.
· Check behind the faceplates of electrical switches and outlets on exterior walls for drafts. Installing inexpensive foam gaskets behind the plate will help keep out cold winter drafts.
· Inspect weatherstripping and door sweeps on exterior doors. If cracked, peeling or hard, replace.
If you own a home or rent a house, get custom, expert advice on how you can reduce your energy waste and energy bills with a low-cost home assessment though the Kootenay Energy Diet. For a limited time, the cost is only $60 (or less if your community is providing an incentive). The usual value is over 300 plus travel fees. You’ll receive $50 in energy saving products and be eligible for up to $6,000 in rebates on insulation, heating systems, windows, doors and more. Sign up by December 13, 2014.
To learn about the Energy Diet and more energy saving tips for your home visit fortisbc.com/energydiet.
*Source: Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation, About Your house, General Series, Home Maintenance Schedule.
