Start your energy efficiency journey with these simple, low-cost actions that deliver immediate results. Perfect for renters, first-time homeowners, and anyone looking for easy wins before tackling larger projects.
Quick Win
Replace incandescent and CFL bulbs with LEDs to save up to 75% on lighting costs. This guide covers choosing the right color temperature, understanding lumens, calculating payback periods, and ensuring dimmer compatibility. Most homeowners recoup their investment within one year.
Quick Win
Eliminate drafts around doors and windows with simple weatherstripping and door sweeps. Learn to identify air leaks using the incense test, measure gaps accurately, choose adhesive-backed foam or V-strip materials, and install door bottom seals. No special tools required for most applications.
Quick Win
Install foam gaskets behind electrical outlet and switch plates on exterior walls to reduce drafts and improve comfort. This ultra-simple project requires only a screwdriver and pre-cut foam pads. Focus on bedrooms, living rooms, and any space where you notice cold spots near outlets.
Beginner
Electronics and chargers consume energy even when turned off. Smart power strips automatically cut power to idle devices, preventing vampire energy drain from TVs, game consoles, and computer peripherals. Learn which devices waste the most standby power and how to configure strip settings for maximum savings.
Beginner
Lower nighttime and away-from-home temperatures automatically with a programmable or smart thermostat. This guide explains optimal temperature setbacks for Canadian winters, programming schedules for different household routines, and how to verify compatibility with your existing HVAC system before purchasing.
Seasonal
Use window treatments strategically to reduce heat loss in winter and solar gain in summer. Cellular shades provide insulating air pockets, while reflective blinds deflect summer sun. Learn when to open and close coverings for passive solar heating, optimal fabric choices, and estimated R-value improvements for different products.
Quick Win
Wrap older water heaters in an insulation blanket to reduce standby heat loss by 7-16%. This one-hour DIY project requires minimal tools and materials. Learn which tank types benefit most, safety precautions for gas water heaters, proper installation techniques, and how to calculate your annual energy savings.
Beginner
Decode delivery charges, time-of-use rates, and consumption metrics on your utility bill. This guide explains how to interpret kWh usage, identify seasonal peaks, understand demand charges, and compare your consumption to regional averages. Knowledge of your bill structure helps you target the most effective energy-saving strategies.