Seal air leaks.

Air leaks let warm air escape and cause drafts in your home. Check around windows, doors, vents, and utilities that lead outside. You can seal those gaps with caulking or weatherstripping.

Electrical outlets and switches can also let heat through. To reduce heat transfer, you can install foam gaskets behind outlets and use child-safety security caps. You’ll find everything you need at your local home and garden store.

Check and clean the chimney.

A dirty chimney will impact your wood-burning fires. It leads to inefficient burning, less heat output and it’s a waste of energy. It can also be a safety issue. Fall is the best time to have your chimney inspected and cleaned. A chimney cleaning company will ensure that any pipes are connected properly and that there are no signs of rust or damage.

Prepare your air conditioner for winter.

If you have a central air conditioning system, remove leaves, sticks and other debris from the outside unit. Wipe down the outside of the unit and put on its winter cover.

If you have window air conditioners, you can remove them from the windows. If they must stay in the window, ensure they’re sealed with caulking and covered with an airtight insulated air conditioner cover. You can pick those up at a home and garden store. 

Prepare your furnace for winter.

An annual furnace inspection and tune-up is essential for energy efficiency and safe performance. Call a reliable HVAC contractor to perform a multi-point inspection. They’ll make adjustments and suggestions for minor repairs and ensure your furnace is ready to keep you cozy this winter.

You should also change your furnace’s air filter. A clogged filter reduces efficiency, puts strain on the system and reduces your indoor air quality. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for how often you should change your air filter. Learn how to change a furnace filter.

Check your air vents.

Help your furnace do its job by making sure no air intake vents or registers are blocked by furniture, drapes or other items. Stick the vacuum cleaner down as far as you can to get out surface dust or pet hair. Then, make sure all the vents are open.

You can also call for professional duct cleaning. Duct cleaning can help remove dust and allergens and improve your indoor air quality for the winter.

Invest in green home upgrades.

Investing in green home upgrades will improve your home’s thermal performance, save energy and lower your heating bills. Here are two that make a big difference:

• Windows: If your home has older or damaged windows, replacing them with energy-efficient ENERGY STAR-certified windows will significantly improve your home’s efficiency. ENERGY-STAR windows will save up to 20% more energy compared to standard models.
• Insulation: If you live in an older home, chances are you’ve inherited old insulation with a low R-value. An attic insulation upgrade can bring that R-value up to the current code and keep your warm air from escaping through the ceiling! Depending on your home, insulation contractors can also update insulation in exterior walls, crawlspaces, and basements.

Check the hot water heater.

Put your hand on your hot water heater tank. If it is hot or warm, that means the energy used to heat your water is escaping. The hardware store sells DIY hot water tank insulation products. Before you start installing one, make sure the water heater isn’t leaking. It’s also a good idea to check labels and manufacturer guidelines for insulating the tank.

While you’re at it, check the water heater thermostat. If it is set too high, you’ll use a lot of energy keeping that water so hot! To save energy, set the temperature between 43°C and 49°C.

Preparing your home for winter and adopting a few new habits can help you use less energy during the colder seasons. You’ll save money on your monthly bills and help create a healthier planet for future generations.

If you think switching energy plans can help you save this season, we’d love to help. Take a look at our energy plans.