Energy Saving Tips for Summer Heat Waves 

Ottawa summers can swing from pleasant to punishing fast, and when the humidex climbs, so does your energy bill. Air conditioners work overtime, appliances pump extra heat into your home, and staying cool comes with a cost. But a few simple habits and manageable upgrades can help you ease the load on your cooling system, feel more comfortable, and spend less money, on the hottest days and all summer long. 

Small changes that add up 

There are lots of small, cost-free or low-cost changes you can make to lower energy use, save money, and reduce strain on your cooling system this summer.  For eligible households, free programs like the Energy Affordability Program (EAP) and Home Winterproofing Program (HWP) can help, providing easy to install upgrades like smart thermostats, drying racks, power strips, and faucet aerators. 

Get the most out of your cooling system 

• Close blinds or curtains during the hottest part of the day to keep cool air in. 

• Adjust your thermostat a few degrees. Try 23-25°C when home and 26–28°C when away, and you could save 5–10% off cooling costs. Be aware of the danger of overheating and always choose a temperature that’s safe for you and your household.

• Use ceiling fans to increase comfort and reduce AC demands. Setting ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise pushes cool air downward.  

• Install a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and automatically adjust temperature settings to save on cooling costs.  

• Clean or replace filters and service your air conditioner regularly. A well-maintained air condition works better, uses less energy, and is less likely to need costly repairs.  

Adjust appliance use 

• Run big appliances like your dishwasher or washing machine during off-peak hours if you are signed up for Ontario’s Time-of-Use plan.  

• Limit use of the stove and oven during hot weather. Cooking on a barbecue or opting for cold dishes like salads, sandwiches, and wraps will keep your kitchen cooler and save energy.  

• Use a drying rack or clothesline to air dry your laundry when you can. Skipping the dryer cuts electricity use and keeps the air in your house cooler.  

• Unplug electronics when not in use, or plug them into a smart power strip. Devices like TVs and computers draw electricity and generate heat even when idle.  A Tier 2 Advanced Power Strip automatically detects when you’re using your electronics and cuts power to devices sitting in standby mode.  

Cut back on hot water 

• Take shorter showers. Cutting shower time in half can reduce hot water use by up to 50%, saving water and energy costs all year. 

• Add an aerator to your bathroom and kitchen faucets to conserve water, lower energy use from hot water, and prevent splashing when washing hands or doing dishes.  

• Wash laundry in cold water. Up to 90% of a washing machine’s energy goes toward heating water. Switching regular loads from warm or hot to cold could save you $30–$60 or more per year. 

• Wait until the dishwasher is full before running it. In most cases, a full load actually uses less water and energy than washing the same dishes by hand.  

Bigger upgrades for bigger savings 

More significant steps, like replacing your cooling system or upgrading insulation, can have a considerable effect on your energy bills and your comfort. Numerous federal, provincial, and municipal programs offer rebates, loans, and incentives to help with upgrades. For households that qualify, programs like the Energy Affordability Program and Home Winterproofing Program can completely cover the cost of many upgrades.  

Switch to a heat pump 

A heat pump is a highly efficient, all-in-one heating and cooling system that runs on electricity. In summer, it works just like an air conditioner, absorbing heat from inside your home and releasing it outside, so cool air circulates back into your living space. It also filters dust and allergens and reduces indoor humidity, so your home is more comfortable year-round. 

Upgrade insulation and air sealing 

Proper insulation and air sealing are more important than you might realize to manage indoor temperatures. Upgrading insulation, especially in the attic, and closing gaps around pipes, vents, and other openings keeps hot air out and cool air in, meaning less work for your cooling system and lower energy bills.