Fall and Winter Energy Saving Tips

• Apply plastic film to your windows during fall and winter to reduce air leaks.  Products designed for this purpose are sold in most hardware stores and are easily applied using a hand-held hairdryer.

• Up to 35% of your home heating can be lost through a non-insulated basement. In Alberta, the recommended insulation level for basement walls is between R-12 and R-20.

• Apply weather stripping around doors to form an air-tight seal and to prevent air leaks and drafts.

• Keep warm and return air registers clear to ensure proper airflow in your home and to maintain a comfortable temperature.

• Install and use a programmable thermostat. This device can automatically reduce the temperature setting while you are away during the day or sleeping at night – which means automatic savings for you!

• Install certified glass doors on the front of your wood-burning fireplace to prevent heated air from escaping up the chimney.

• Open drapes during the daytime in cold weather to take advantage of free, natural light and warmth from the sun. During cold winter evenings or hot summer days, keep the drapes closed to help maintain your home’s temperature.

• Install foam gaskets behind outlets and switches to reduce air leakage. Be sure to switch off any electric power prior to completing this work.