Make small changes that add up

1. Use the microwave to reheat food: it’s the most efficient
2. Dishwasher:
   • Buy an ENERGY STAR^® certified dishwasher: use 12% less energy
   • Scrape dishes, don’t rinse: let the dishwasher do the rest
   • Use the “air dry” feature
   • Assess each load: use the setting with best cleaning in least amount of time
3. Install an ENERGY STAR certified range hood to use 50% less energy than a standard one
4. Fridge:
   • Shop for an ENERGY STAR certified fridge: use 10% less energy
   • Allow air to flow: don’t overfill your fridge
   • Keep fridge away from heat sources: e.g. vent, oven, sun

1. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models when buying a new TV to use 25% less energy
2. Find the ENERGY STAR symbol when you buy a cordless phone (40% savings compared to other models)
3. Find the ENERGY STAR symbol when you buy audio/video products (up to 70% savings compared to standard models)
4. Buy ENERGY STAR certified recessed lighting fixtures (pot lights): use up to 90% less energy than traditional models with incandescent bulbs
5. Use a “smart” power strip to cut power to devices not in use
6. Choose ENERGY STAR certified LED bulbs: they last 15 times longer than incandescent ones

1. Enable low power settings to save energy and help your battery last longer
2. Use a “smart” power strip to reduce energy waste when equipment is on stand by or off
3. Buy ENERGY STAR certified light fixtures to use up to 90% less energy than traditional models using incandescent bulbs
4. Seal areas of air leakage around all window and door casings, mouldings, and baseboards to stop wasting cooled air. Learn how: www.nrcan.gc.ca/kthi
5. Purchase ENERGY STAR certified office equipment to use up to 30% less energy

1. Install foam insulation gaskets behind electrical outlet faceplates. Learn how: www.nrcan.gc.ca/kthi
2. Switch to ENERGY STAR certified light bulbs and save up to 90% more energy than incandescent ones
3. Keep air flowing by not obstructing vents or return air grilles with furniture
4. Use ENERGY STAR certified computer monitors to save 25% more energy than standard models
5. Seal cracks and penetrations on the walls, ceilings or floors to prevent air from escaping into the walls and roof

1. Choose a 25% more energy efficient door with an ENERGY STAR exterior door for better insulation, which helps keep cooled air indoors
2. Install an ENERGY STAR certified “smart” thermostat to take control of your cooling
3. Apply weatherstripping around older exterior doors to waste less cooled air
4. Turn off lights when not in use

1. Furnace:
   • Choose an ENERGY STAR certified furnace with an efficiency rating of at least 95% for gas, 85% for oil.
   • Look for the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient designation to save even more when buying a new gas furnace.
   • Change or clean filters every 3 months or as they become dirty.
   • Clean and service regularly: Oil-fired furnaces need annual maintenance, natural gas and propane furnaces should be serviced at least every two years.
2. Ducts:
   • Seal all supply ductwork with aluminum foil duct tape, approved flexible plastic tape or water-based mastic to improve comfort.
   • Make sure heating, cooling, and ventilation ducts running through basements, crawl spaces, or unheated attics are sealed and insulated.
   • Ensure your heat, cooling, and ventilation distribution system is balanced: undersized ductwork, leaking ducts, inadequate or poorly placed return air grilles can mean discomfort and higher heating bills. Find a professional to inspect your system should you suspect a heating or cooling problem.

1. Look into an air source heat pump (ASHP): it is energy-efficient and can supply both heating and cooling for your home. Keep your ASHP or A/C clear of bushes or debris that could restrict air flow
2. Say yes to installing a solar energy system: a safe, reliable, low-maintenance source of electricity that helps reduce your electrical costs and produces no on-site pollution or emissions
3. Keep your heat or energy recovery ventilator running smoothly by inspecting and cleaning outside hoods and screens

Important: Consult your owner’s manual for maintenance and details of all heating, cooling and ventilation equipment