aroundthehouse
Improve your home’s energy efficiency this spring
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t’s time to end the winter hibernating and revitalize your home for another busy spring and summer season. As you plan your spring cleaning, consider using the opportunity to think about how to improve your home’s energy efficiency. There are some cleaning tasks that will help save energy and money. Dave Walton, a resident expert at Direct Energy, shares some practical tips guaranteed to help you get your home in shape, while saving money: ›› Examine windows and insulation. Up to 30 per cent of a home’s heating and cooling costs can be lost through poorly fitted windows and doors. Caulking and weather stripping or upgrading to new energy efficient windows can save homeowners approximately $150 per year on their energy bill.
›› Don’t forget about the light bulbs. When replacing them, remember that an energy-saving light bulb can last up to 10 times longer than a normal bulb and use up to 75 per cent less energy. You’ll save yourself some money and won’t have to worry about this regular chore.
AS YOU PLAN YOUR SPRING CLEANING, CONSIDER USING THE OPPORTUNITY TO THINK ABOUT HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME’S ENERGY EFFICIENCY. ›› Remember your filters. Replacing or washing your furnace filters allows a central air conditioning system to run more efficiently too. Clogged filters mean your furnace motor has to work harder, which eats up more energy. Filters should be washed or replaced every three months (some are 30 days), so start by making this part of your spring-cleaning routine. Try adding a reminder to your calendar for the first day of each quarter. ›› Consult the experts. Consider booking a pre-summer maintenance with a licensed technician who can make sure your air conditioner is summer-ready and able to perform more efficiently when higher temperatures put it to the test. Additional energy-efficient tips can be found online atdavescorner.ca. NC
MAR 23 - APR 20, 2013 | Greater toronto area ResAle hoMe & condo Guide
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