The weather in Toronto can range from cold to sweltering summer heat, and throughout the year, you’re likely to be spending a lot on heating and air conditioning to keep your home as comfortable as possible. However, that doesn’t mean that your bills have to be through the roof. If you’re wondering why yours are so high, take a look at the five main contributors listed below and see how they can be used to save you money.

How to Reduce Heating and Air Conditioning Bills

1. Inefficient Heating and Cooling Systems.

Your HVAC system is the most energy-intensive component of your house, accounting for roughly half of your overall energy consumption. An old or badly maintained heating and cooling system will work harder than necessary, increasing your energy bills.

What Are the Causes of High HVAC Energy Consumption?

• Dirty air filters restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder.
• Leaky ductwork allows hot or cooled air to escape.
• Older HVAC equipment are less efficient than newer, higher-efficiency counterparts.
• Incorrect thermostat settings cause the system to work more than necessary.

✅ How To Reduce Your HVAC Costs:

• Change the air filter every 1-3 months.
• Seal duct leaks and keep vents open and unobstructed.
• Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace or air conditioner.
• A programmable thermostat can help you optimize your heating and cooling routines.

2. Poor Home Insulation and Air Leaks

If your home isn’t properly insulated, you’re effectively paying to heat or cool the outside. Air leaks and insufficient insulation cause up to 30% of a home’s energy loss.

Common Energy Leaks:

• Gaps around windows and doors allow drafts in.
• In the winter, insufficient attic insulation leads to heat loss.
• Unsealed electrical outlets and vents let air escape.

✅ How to Improve Insulation and Reduce Energy Losses:

• Install weather-stripping around the doors and windows.
• Add insulation to your attics, walls, and crawlspaces.
• To fill minor gaps and cracks, apply caulk or foam sealant.

3. Outdated or inefficient appliances.

Older appliances are less energy-efficient than newer models. Even when switched off, certain appliances continue to use power in standby mode, resulting to energy waste.

Appliances that use the most energy:

• Fridges and freezers
• Washing machines and dryers.
• Dishwashers
• Oven and stove
• Water heaters

✅How to Reduce Appliance Energy Use:

• Upgrade to ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances.
• Unplug items that are not in use, or utilize smart power strips.
• Run washing machines and dishwashers at maximum capacity.
• Set water heaters to 120°F (49°C) to avoid overheating.

4. Inefficient Lighting and Excess Electricity Use

Lighting accounts for around 12% of a home’s energy use, and inefficient bulbs or needless lights left on can increase expenditures.

✅ Top Tips to Save on Lighting and Electricity:

• Switch to LED or CFL bulbs, which consume 75% less energy than incandescent lights.
• Install motion sensors or timers to turn the lights off automatically.
• Make use of natural light during the day.
• Unplug chargers, laptops, and small gadgets while they are not in use.

5. High water heating costs.

Water heating accounts for 14-18% of your energy bill, making it one of the most significant home energy costs.

Factors that raise water heating costs:

• Using obsolete and inefficient water heaters.
• Setting the water heater too high.
• Taking a lengthy, steamy shower.
• Washing clothing with hot water.

✅ Top Tips to Cut Water Heating Costs:

• Lower the water heater’s temperature to 120°F (49°C).
• Install a tankless water heater to provide on-demand heating.
• When feasible, use cold water to wash your items.
• Fix leaks, as even minor drops can accumulate over time.

Energy bills seem to be ever-rising and count for a large chunk of most people’s expenses. Assessing the main factors listed above could help you reduce those bills, so you can spend your hard-earned money on something more enjoyable. 

Small changes lead to significant savings.

Reducing your energy expenditures does not have to imply losing comfort. You may reduce your utility expenditures while increasing the energy efficiency of your house by tackling these five major energy wasters. Simple efforts like as increasing insulation, maintaining your HVAC system, and utilizing energy-efficient appliances can result in considerable long-term savings.

If you’re seeking for energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions, call Tropic Air if you are looking for furnace repairs/tune-ups, AC repairs and maintenance, Boiler repairs or installing heat pumps.