Are you a homeowner who would like to save money on heat and electricity bills?
You may be eligible for free home upgrades that could lower your heat and electricity costs through the Enhanced Energy Savings Program. The Government of New Brunswick funds the program and NB Power administers it.
The program focuses on helping homeowners in New Brunswick reduce energy costs through home upgrades such as:
- the addition of basement, attic and wall insulation
- ventilation to improve air quality and/or humidity issues
- mini-split heat pumps for efficient heating and cooling
For more information and to apply, visit NB Power’s Enhanced Energy Savings Program page.
Six tips to cut energy costs
Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, there are steps you can take to lower your energy consumption and save on energy costs, including:
1. Do laundry right: Wash full loads with cold water and invest in a collapsible drying rack to hang-dry items.
2. Install brighter lightbulbs: When you’re replacing bulbs, opt for LED. They last up to 25 times longer than traditional light bulbs.
3. Unplug your devices when you’re not using them: Invest in a smart strip power bar or a smart plug that cuts the power to devices when they’re on standby.
4. Seal up gaps or cracks: Seal gaps around windows, vents and exterior doors with caulking (a tube costs under $10). You can use foam gaskets (a package costs about $5) behind light switches and electrical outlets to keep the heat in.
5. Watch streaming: Set your laptops, computers, and streaming devices to energy-saving modes so you can stream efficiently.
6. Watch the thermostat: Follow these golden rules for key thermostat temperatures:
- nighttime or when you’re away from home: set to 17 degrees Celsius
- when you’re home: set to 20 or 21 degrees Celsius
Source: NB Power
