9 Ways to Save Money on Heating Bills This Winter in Toronto

        We've been lucky with a warmer than average Fall and Early Winter, but we all know that that cold weather will hit us sooner or later.  

 While staying warm in and of itself is no difficult task, doing so without needlessly throwing money down the drain is a completely different story. As such, if you wish to save on your electrical bills this holiday season, be sure to follow the tips below. Who knows, you might even save a little to buy some extra gifts.  Check out these awesome tips from our Toronto electrical contracting team at Transfer Electric.  

1.    Use extra blankets. This one should be a no brainer. Thick, fur blankets capture and maintain heat with very minimal effort. This perhaps one of the easiest ways to save on your heating bill. According to experts, “For every 1 degree you set your thermostat back, you can save 1 to 3 percent on your annual heating costs.”

2.     Maintain your heating systems. By doing so, you can save hundreds on your bill. Faulty systems can cause further expenses down the road. Ensure there are proper furnaces or boilers working and schedule regular maintenance check ups. Additionally, one should replace and clean furnace filters as recommended. Having dirty filters can heavily restrict airflow and thus increase energy use. Be sure to keep furnace clean and lubricated.

3.    Apply window film throughout the house. With a tad bit of cash, you can better insulate your home by the use of translucent film around the edges of windows. These edges are often how heat escapes and cold air enters. Thus, preventing this can add that much more to saving you additional money on bills.

4.    Lower water heating costs. According to studies, water accounts for 18% of energy consumption in a household. As such, one should turn down the temperature of the water to about 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This not only saves money but also keeps your body safe from burning. 

5.    Maintain your fireplace. Be sure to keep your fireplace damper closed when not burning wood. This is the equivalent of keeping your window open when it’s cold outside, it’s practically inviting the cold air inside the house. If your fireplace is never used, simply plug your chimney. And if the fireplace is used often, install “tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room.”

6.    Use sunlight for warmth. It really is as simple as that. Use what mothernature offers all living organisms and bask in the natural sunlight. Just close your windows and let the light warm up the house. In addition, you can use solar powered technology for long term cost effectiveness.

7.    A homeowner should consider replacing appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers with Energy Star certified products. These brands are guaranteed to be appliances that do not waste any additional energy and as a result, money.

8.    Turn down the thermostat. This should be dialed down to around 68 degrees. Obviously this should be done in conjunction with the home’s occupants wearing thick clothing and having extra blankets. For every degree that is lowered, “you'll save up to 5 percent on heating costs.” While away, be sure to set the thermostat to 55 degrees. No one will be home to feel the cold and further money can be saved.

9.    Seal up leaks. Gaps or holes in pipes, tiles, and corners of walls can all lead to cold air seeping through. These leaks are often found in bathrooms, kitchen sinks, pipes around the house, and the like. Use caulk to seal smaller leaks. For larger leaks, go to your local hardware store. Once there, a professional can provide the resources and insight on fixing these holes.