- Electronic devices continue to consume "phantom" or standby power even when not being used, adding five to 10 per cent to your energy bill. Culprits include televisions and home theatre systems, computers (including monitors and printers), cellphone and other chargers and game consoles.
Solution: Plug the devices into power bars that cut the electricity supply when it's not needed.
- Set-top boxes that bring cable and other services to your television are among the worst phantom power hogs. Depending on the number and configuration, they can consume more power than a central air conditioning system, according to a detailed New York Times article. They often can't be unplugged because they take forever to reboot. Look for Energy Star models with the lowest phantom power consumption and minimize the number you own.
- When using a dishwasher, Ontario Power Authority suggests air drying your dishes, using the air-dry setting (or energy saver) option, or just leaving the door open. Visit saveonenergy.ca for more tips.
- Think twice before you buy a digital picture frame or at least either unplug it when no one's home or put it on a power bar with a timer. The Electric Power Research Institute, a non-profit research group, estimates that if every household in America ran one digital picture frame around the clock, five additional power plants would be needed to operate them.
- Air conditioners are among a home's biggest energy hogs and units from the 1970s can use up to 50 per cent more power than today's models, according to the United States Department of Energy. Even 10-year-old systems can be 20 to 40 per cent less efficient than new models. Look for Energy Star-certified units. As well, shade the condenser from the sun and keep it free from leaves and other debris to achieve maximum efficiency.
Air conditioners are eligible for a rebate under the federal ecoEnergy program (oee.nrcan.gc.ca).
- Cut heating costs up to five per cent by changing furnace filters every one to three months.
- You know that old beer fridge may be wasting up to $125 a year in electricity. But did you realize that dirty coils on the back or bottom of your fridge or freezer make it work harder? Vacuum them every couple of months, more often if you have a pet that sheds hair. Check the seal on your refrigerator or freezer. Close the door on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out easily, replace the gasket.
- Incandescent light bulbs are being phased out in Canada and elsewhere. To maximize the life of CFL bulbs, leave them on at least 15 minutes, but then turn them off when you leave the room. Contrary to what you may have heard, re-energizing bulbs uses minimal electricity.
- Winter vacation? Consider un-plugging your refrigerator and using timers on your indoor lights.
