TIPS FOR SAVING ENERGY
-Control ambient temperature with a programmable thermostat.
To maintain comfort while saving on energy costs, program your thermostat at 17°C when you are away, and 20°C when you are home. Contact our 24/7 service to obtain an appointment with one of our qualified technicians for the purchase and installation of a programmable thermostat.
-Have your furnace checked regularly by a certified technician.
Regular maintenance will guarantee good performance from your furnace and will maximize your comfort. To schedule an appointment, call Gazifère at 819 771-8321.
-Clean or replace your furnace air filter regularly.
We recommend a monthly check on the condition of your air filter. Clean or replace it as necessary, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
-Close your fireplace doors and damper when not in use.
To avoid air leakage.
-Make sure your fireplace windows are clean.
To allow the heat to spread properly. Do not use ordinary glass cleaner or a damp cloth to clean the windows of your fireplace; this could cause frosting or cracking. There are cleaners designed specifically for fireplaces. Check with a specialized retailer.
-Have your fireplace maintained regularly.
This should be done by a natural gas specialist. This will prevent the accumulation of debris in the flue, thereby maintaining good fireplace performance. Call Gazifère at 819 771-8321 to schedule an appointment.
-Fix leaking faucets.
This is very important; a dripping faucet can waste up to 4 litres of water per hour.
-Choose ENERGY STAR®-certified windows.
ENERGY STAR®-certified windows offer better energy efficiency than the traditional types, helping you save on your total cost of heating.
-Have the energy efficiency of your home assessed by an expert.
As a participant in the Rénoclimat program, you will receive personalized advice on how to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Completing the recommended renovations will qualify you for the financial assistance available from Transition énergétique Québec (TEQ). For more information on the Rénoclimat program, go to the TEQ website: https://transitionenergetique.gouv.qc.ca/en/residential/programs/renoclimat
–Seal your windows tighter.
To reduce cold air infiltration in winter, cover the windows that you do not open with transparent plastic film. Check your window frames; if the joints are not tight, caulk them.
-Replace incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs or compact fluorescents lightbulbs.
LED bulbs and compact fluorescents lightbulbs use less energy and last much longer than incandescent bulbs. Learn more about ENERGY STAR®-certified light bulbs here: www.hydroquebec.com/residential/energy-wise/lighting/bulbs/
-Let the sunshine in.
On sunny days, leave the drapes open to let the sun’s heat warm rooms with a southern exposure. When the sun sets, close the drapes to keep the heat in and reduce air leakage around windows.
-Close off rooms you are not using.
If you have rooms you do not use in winter, or rooms that stay cooler, keep the doors closed to retain heat where it’s wanted and stop the cold air from spreading.
-Install a ceiling fan to boost air circulation.
Installing a ceiling fan will greatly improve air circulation. In winter, run it clockwise to prevent accumulation of warm air near the ceiling, and in summer, run it counterclockwise to draw the warm air upwards.
-Don’t forget to have your ducts cleaned.
Duct cleaning is recommended every three years. This is an effective way of reducing health problems and fire hazards, and will improve home comfort. It also ensures more efficient performance from your heating and air conditioning equipment.
-Install weatherstripping around exterior doors.
Weatherstripping keeps cold air out of the house. It can also reduce heat losses.
