Daylight savings time has come to an end for another year. As the days get colder and darker, BC Hydro is reminding British Columbians about energy-efficient choices that will help save power and money.
On average, heating can account for up to 50 per cent of a household’s energy use during the cold fall and winter months. That’s why BC Hydro is encouraging customers to make no- or low-cost changes that could lead to big savings as the weather cools down.
Use heat smarts: Set the thermostat to the ideal temperatures (16 degrees C while away from home or asleep, 21 degrees C when relaxing at home) to save up to 10 per cent.
Don’t be daft about the draft: Seal cracks in doors and windows to block out cold air and keep heat inside to save up to $100 over the fall and winter months.
Don’t go wasting waterfalls: The average B.C. household uses nearly $250-worth of electricity every year to keep hot water flowing. Save up to $30 per year by installing energy-efficient tap aerators to cut down on the amount of water you use.
Light up your life with LEDs: LED bulbs use at least 75 per cent less energy than incandescent lighting, and can last up to 25 times longer. One LED bulb will translate into $100 in energy savings over its lifespan.
Join the team: Sign up for Team Power Smart and commit to cutting electricity consumption by 10 per cent over the year, earning a $50 reward if successful.
For more ways to save power during the fall and winter months, visit powersmart.ca.
editorial@accjournal.ca
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