There are a range of steps you can take to increase your home energy efficiency and savings. As NB Power (New Brunswick Power) explains, keeping your thermostat as low as possible is the best way to achieve savings. But there are a number of other changes, which cost little to nothing, but can make a big difference in your utility bills:

No cost:

• Turn your thermostat lower while sleeping or away. (Suggested temperatures are 20°C for comfort, 17°C while sleeping or away for 8 to 12 hours and 15°C while away for extended periods.)
• Wear slippers and a sweater to keep warmer, instead of turning up the thermostat. 
• Open window coverings to allow in free solar heat on sunny winter days, and be sure to close window coverings to help keep heat in during cold and dark winter evenings.
• Double check that any unnecessary baseboard heaters are shut off at the circuit breaker in your electrical panel. "At the end of the heating season, make sure all baseboard heaters are 'off'  at the circuit breaker in your electrical panel," New Brunswick Power instructs homeowners. 

Little cost:

• Install a programmable thermostat to make adjusting the temperature easier.
• Apply caulk and weather strip around drafty doors and windows. In addition, consider plastic window kits to strengthen the energy performance of your windows.
• Seal and insulate your attic hatch and your unused open-hearth fireplace. Also, if your fireplace is in use, be sure to shut the damper and glass doors once the fire is out.
• Use a portable space heater for the rooms you spend the most time in, and lower the setting of your central furnace. Always make sure to turn off and unplug your portable heater.
• Have your central heating system checked by a certified service professional at least once a year, ideally prior to the heating season.
• Change your central furnace filters regularly (once a month or as needed). This is particularly important if you burn wood.

Fundy Mutual can help you with your home insurance needs during the winter and year-round. Based in Sussex, New Brunswick, we have been serving customers in the region for over 70 years. Contact us for an affordable home or car insurance quote.