Home Energy

Homes contribute to greenhouse gas emissions through the energy used for heating, hot water, lighting, appliances, and cooling. The largest source is typically home heating, especially when natural gas, propane, or oil is used. Since Ontario’s electricity grid is relatively low-carbon, improving energy efficiency and reducing fossil fuel use for heating, such as by upgrading insulation or switching to a heat pump, can significantly lower a household’s carbon footprint.

Here is a range of home efficiency opportunities and supports from low or no-cost to major retrofits

Low-Cost or No-Cost Actions

· Turn down thermostats 1–2°C when sleeping or away.

· Install LED light bulbs.

· Use smart power bars and unplug unused electronics.

· Reduce hot water use (shorter showers, cold-water laundry).

· Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.

· Seal drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulking.

· Close blinds/curtains during hot summer days and open them for passive solar heat in winter.

· Regularly replace furnace filters.

Moderate-Cost Measures

· Smart thermostat installation.