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Ways to Save Money on Your Electricity Bill

20 Ways to Save Money on Your Electricity Bill in Canada [You Can Easily Apply]

Are you tired of watching your electricity bill climb higher every month? 😬

Staying connected, warm, and comfortable can get expensive in Canada, especially with our extreme seasons.

But what if I told you there’s a bunch of small, easy-to-apply strategies that can bring that bill down a notch? 

Or even a few notches? 

Use Optimal Mode for All Appliances

Getting the most out of your appliances without overusing electricity is key. When possible, set your devices to energy-saving or optimal modes.

  • Dishwashers and Washers: Many of these have “eco” or “low energy” modes that use less water and heat.
  • Refrigerators and Freezers: Keep them at the recommended temperature (about 4°C for the fridge and -18°C for the freezer).

Using these settings regularly can shave off a good chunk from your electricity bill. Personally, I’ve seen a difference with just a few tweaks here and there!

Limit Use of Air Conditioner

Your air conditioner is a money eater in the warmer months, and it’s not cheap. Try these tips:

  • Use a ceiling fan: This uses less electricity and can be just as effective if you’re staying in one room.
  • Set the thermostat higher: The Department of Energy recommends around 25°C when you’re home.

Close blinds or curtains during the day: This keeps the sun’s heat out and saves energy.

Choose How Your Electricity is Billed

Did you know some provinces in Canada allow you to choose your billing plan? Some offer time-of-use rates, which means the electricity costs less during off-peak hours.

In Ontario, energy use is typically cheaper (🤑🤑🤑) after 7 PM. That’s the time to do laundry, run the dishwasher, and charge up those devices! 

Use Electricity When Price is Lower

If you’re on a time-of-use plan, making small shifts in when you use electricity can lead to savings.

  • Try running major appliances at night or early in the morning.
  • Avoid high-energy activities during peak hours—usually around 5 PM to 7 PM.

20 Ways to Save Money on Your Electricity Bill in Canada

20 Ways to Save Money on Electricity Bill in Canada

1. Seal Up Windows, Doors, and Air Leaks


Air leaks can drive up your
heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. 

Sealing gaps around windows and doors with caulk or weatherstripping keeps warm air in (or out, depending on the season) and helps lower your energy bills.

2. Use Window Coverings Wisely


Curtains or blinds are your best friends for
saving money on utility bills. They can keep the heat out in summer and trap warmth in winter. 

Close the curtains in the evening and during peak sunlight to keep things comfortable without cranking the AC or heater.

3. Install a Programmable Thermostat & Adjust It


A programmable thermostat can be a lifesaver. Set it to automatically reduce temperatures at night or when you’re not home.
Save up to 10% on heating costs with strategic settings.

4. Use a Smarter Bulb: Timers, Dimmers, Motion Sensors, or Task Lighting


Timers, dimmers, and motion sensors make sure
lights only stay on when needed. Adding LED bulbs reduces your electricity use even further, as they consume up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs.

5. Choose the Right Lights


Switch out those old incandescent bulbs for LEDs. An
Energy Star certified LED bulb can save significant energy, and they’re built to last—perfect for reducing energy costs over time!

6. Stop Phantom Energy Usage


Even when they’re turned off,
electronics draw power. 

Plugging multiple devices into a power strip and switching it off when not in use can stop phantom power and reduce your electricity bill by up to 10%.

7. Use Cost-Efficient Devices


Look for
Energy Star certified devices. From fridges to washers, these use less electricity without compromising performance.

8. Inspect, Clean, and Replace Filters Regularly


Dirty filters make your furnace and AC work harder, which uses more energy. Cleaning or replacing filters every few months helps reduce your energy use.

9. Shut Down Devices You’re Not Using


Remember to turn off your computer, TV, and other electronics when you’re done. Better yet, unplug them—phantom power can account for a good portion of your electricity bill.

10. Cook, Clean, and Wash with Less Energy


Use a microwave or toaster oven for small meals, which consume much less energy than a conventional oven. Running full loads in the dishwasher or washing machine also saves energy and money.

11. Install Solar Panels


Solar panels are a bigger investment but can be a great long-term way to reduce your electricity use.

  • Use Your Own Solar Panel
    Generate your own power for years to come.
  • Participate in a Community Solar Project
    Many areas offer shared solar options for those who can’t install their own panels.

12. Use Dishwasher to Save More Energy, Money, Water, and Time


It sounds strange, but using a dishwasher can actually be
more energy-efficient than hand washing if you run full loads.

13. Air-Dry Your Dishes Instead of Heat-Dry Cycle


Turn off the heat-dry cycle on your dishwasher and let your dishes air-dry. It uses significantly less electricity and leaves your dishes just as dry—without the extra energy cost.

14. Use Motion to Stop Waste


Install motion-sensor lights in hallways, bathrooms, or other areas where lights tend to get left on by accident. It’s a quick, effective way to save electricity.

15. Turn Off the Burner a Little Early


Turn off the stove or oven a few minutes before the cooking time is up. Residual heat will finish the job, cutting down on energy use.

16. Wash Clothes in Warm or Cold Water to Wash Your Laundry


Hot water is a major electricity hog. Washing clothes in warm or cold water is gentler on your clothes and your utility bills.

17. Adjust Your Fridge and Freezer Temperature


Setting your fridge to
4°C and your freezer to -18°C keeps food fresh without overusing energy. Check your settings to help lower costs.

18. Reduce Hot Water Consumption


Heating water can make up 20% of your
utility bills. Try cutting down on hot water for showers, and consider lowering the thermostat on your water heater.

19. Regulate Heating System


Strategic heating adjustments—like lowering the temperature at night—can lead to substantial savings. 

Energy Star estimates that turning down the heat by 10 degrees when you’re asleep or out could help reduce costs significantly.

20. Use an Energy-Tracking App


An app can help you monitor energy use, set goals, and see trends in your consumption. Apps connected to smart home products even allow you to adjust settings remotely.

Learn more about Cost of living in Canada:

📚 Cost of Living in Canada [Must-Know Information]

📚 Cost of Living in Calgary

📚 Cost of living in Montreal 

📚 Cost of Living in Vancouver

Insulate Your Home for Year-Round Efficiency

In Canada’s colder months, keeping your home warm can become one of the biggest drains on your energy bill. Insulating your home is a straightforward way to trap heat inside, which helps reduce your heating electricity use and keeps the cold winter months at bay.

  • Add Insulation: Insulating walls, attics, and floors can prevent up to 30% of heat from escaping.
  • Weatherproof Doors and Windows: Using draft stoppers or insulating film can help block out the cold air, saving you more on heating costs.

By reducing heat loss, you keep the thermostat down while still staying cozy. It’s a smart investment, especially for those cold winter air months!

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Older appliances are notorious for consuming more electricity. Upgrading to energy-efficient models can be a game-changer for your utility bills. 

👉 Look for Energy Star certified options, which are designed to use less energy without compromising performance.

  • Smart Fridges and Freezers: These consume less electricity by adjusting cooling levels based on usage.
  • High-Efficiency Washers and Dryers: These models use less water and energy, which is a win-win for reducing utility costs.

Though the initial cost might be higher, the long-term savings on your electricity bill can make these appliances well worth the investment.

 

Schedule an Energy Audit for a Comprehensive Assessment

If you’re serious about lowering your electricity use, consider an energy audit. Conducted by professionals, an audit examines every corner of your home to identify areas where you might be wasting energy and money.

  • What You’ll Learn: Auditors check windows and doors, insulation, lighting, and even air leaks to offer targeted advice.
  • Why It Matters: With these insights, you can prioritize upgrades, whether that’s fixing air leaks, adding insulation, or switching to energy-efficient products.

Many local utility companies offer energy audits or rebate programs for improvements, making it a practical step for saving money and reducing environmental impact.

Lower Water Heating Costs with a Few Simple Changes

Water heating can account for up to 20% of your electricity bill. Making a few small adjustments can really add up.

  • Lower the Water Heater Temperature: Setting it to 49°C (120°F) is plenty hot and reduces energy consumption.
  • Install a Low-Flow Showerhead: These limit water flow without sacrificing pressure, which means less energy is needed to heat water.
  • Insulate the Water Heater and Pipes: This keeps water hotter for longer, reducing the need to reheat it as often.

These adjustments can be particularly helpful during winter when energy needs are typically higher.

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Rethink Your Laundry Habits to Save on Dryer Costs

The dryer is one of the most power-hungry appliances in the house, especially if used frequently. With a few tweaks, you can lower energy costs associated with doing laundry.

Air-Dry Clothes


Whenever possible, hang clothes to dry instead of using the dryer.

Use Dryer Balls


These help separate clothes, reducing drying time and using
less electricity.

Run Full Loads


Running only full loads means you’re maximizing the dryer’s efficiency, saving both time and money.

Each of these tips adds up, making your laundry routine a bit lighter on both electricity use and cost.

Plant Shade Trees for Natural Cooling

It might sound simple, but planting trees around your home can be a fantastic way to manage electricity use, especially in summer. Strategically planted trees offer shade, which can reduce the need for air conditioning.

  • Benefits: Shade trees can reduce cooling costs by up to 30% and help with insulation during winter.
  • Placement: Position trees on the sunniest side of your home (usually the west) for maximum impact.

Not only does this help reduce your energy needs, but it’s also a long-term investment in your property’s value.

Adding these extra tips gives a more rounded approach to reducing energy use and saving money on utility bills—helpful, straightforward steps anyone can take. 

Try a few, see what works for you, and watch your electricity bill drop over time! 😊

Hope you have such bags 💰💰💰 

Final Verdict

Cutting down on your electricity bill doesn’t mean you need to shiver through winter or sweat through summer. 

A few adjustments to how you manage appliances, lighting, and energy use can make a big impact on your wallet and the planet. 

Who doesn’t love the idea of a smaller electric bill?

Want more tips or need quotes on energy-efficient devices? Fill out a form, get in touch, or find out about rebates that might be available for some of these upgrades.

FAQs

Q: How does sealing leaks help with saving energy?
A: By stopping air leaks, you keep warm air in during winter and cool air in during summer, helping your heating and cooling systems work less and reducing electricity use.

Q: Are LEDs really worth the switch?
A: Absolutely! LEDs use up to 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last much longer, which can save energy and money over time.

Q: Is a programmable thermostat worth it?
Yes, it helps you maintain a consistent temperature and can save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs by reducing energy when you’re not home.

Q: Do smart devices really save energy?
Energy-efficient products, like smart thermostats and plugs, can help you control energy use better, which can save you money over time.

Q: How can a programmable thermostat help reduce my electricity bill?

A programmable thermostat can help you save electricity by automatically adjusting the temperature according to your schedule. By using it to lower the heat during the night or when you’re away, you can reduce your energy consumption and save money on utility bills.

Q: What are some effective ways to reduce electricity use in my home?

To reduce electricity use, consider using energy star certified appliances, turning off electronics when not in use, utilizing ceiling fans instead of air conditioners, and opting for led bulbs over incandescent ones. These methods can help reduce your energy consumption and lower your energy bills.

Q: How do air leaks impact my energy bill, and how can I address them?

Air leaks can increase your electricity bill by allowing warm or cool air to escape, making your heating or cooling systems work harder. Sealing windows, doors, and vents can improve energy efficiency and help you save money on energy.

Q: Are there any specific appliances that consume more electricity and ways to save on them?

Appliances such as dryers, air conditioners, and furnaces typically consume more electricity. To save energy, consider air-drying clothes, using energy-efficient models, and maintaining these appliances regularly.

Q: How does the use of electronics on standby affect electricity bills?

Electronics on standby, often referred to as phantom power, continue to use electricity even when turned off. Unplugging devices or using smart power strips can significantly reduce your energy use and lower your monthly bills.

Q: Can changing light bulbs lead to energy savings?

Yes, replacing incandescent bulbs with led bulbs can save up to 10% on your electricity use. Led bulbs are more energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan, which helps reduce your electricity consumption over time.

Q: How can using blinds contribute to reducing energy costs?

Using blinds to block out sunlight during the summer months can help keep your home cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning. This simple method can effectively save energy and money by reducing your cooling costs.

Q: What role does the Department of Energy play in providing energy efficiency tips?

The Department of Energy offers numerous energy efficiency tips and guidelines to help individuals and businesses reduce their electricity use. These tips can help you save on your energy bill and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

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