pollution or pollen infiltrating the house. A retired couple from PEI recently undertook an energy audit. “We feared we’d have to sell our home because of the exorbitant heating costs and living on a pension,” say the homeowners. After hearing about the program, the couple made the recommended upgrades, which can save the average family between fifteen and twenty per cent in energy savings. “We now have a home we love, and can enjoy our retirement,” the couple add. However, there are even simpler ways you can save energy costs. Collier suggests installing a smart thermostat, or turning down the heat when you’re not at home, and at night. “A myth we’ve battled for years is, if you turn down the heat overnight, you’re going to burn as much energy heating the house back up, but that’s not the case,” he notes. He also recommends checking your electronics for “ghost loads,” or standby power. “We know a typical household on
the Island consumes between one hundred and two hundred dollars a year in standby power.” A simple fix is purchasing a smart power bar that can sense when your electronics are not in use and switch them off. If you are planning a major reno or building project, efficiencyPEI can recommend a network of pre-vetted contractors. They also offer a program which could provide a rebate on purchasing new energy-efficient washing machines, refrigerators, and even toilets. Collier suggests that homeowners look at energy savings through the same lens as the recycling pyramid of reduce, reuse, recycle. “Energy has a similar concept,” he says. “Think in terms of conservation, efficiency, then renewable energy.” Before making an energy-saving decision on your home, talk to efficiencyPEI first. “We’ve got either a program, or information, to help you make the right choice,” says Collier.
W hile building a new home, or upgrading your existing one, is a great time to take advantage of efficiencyPEI’s programs. Every homeowner can benefit from expert advice, save money—and the environment. Collier says the easiest—and cheapest— way to save money on energy costs is through a home energy audit. efficiencyPEI partner with Homesol Building Solutions, as well as Sustainable Housing, to conduct audits. They begin with a blower door test, using a large fan, to check the airtightness of a property. “While the fan is running, they’ll walk around with you, so you can feel every little air leak in your home,” says Collier. The professionals also inspect locations like your basement for leaks, as well as the attic hatch, and the area where the framing meets the foundation. They then give a list of recommendations to the homeowner. “It could be simple things, like adding weather-stripping on windows or doors, replacing gaskets on electrical outlets, or caulking,” says Collier. The report also outlines the greenhouse gas emissions for the house. Best of all, the costs are subsidized, so homeowners pay only ninety- nine dollars, plus tax, which includes a pre- and post-inspection. Collier says the other added benefit of an energy audit is feeling more comfortable in your home. “Even if the temperature is set at twenty-two degrees, if a window is leaky, you’re going to feel it on the back of your neck,” says Collier. Controlling your home’s air quality also translates into less air
Efficiency PEI 69 Belvedere Ave, Charlottetown 902.620.3690 www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/top- ic/energy-efficiency
▲ Andy Collier
FALL 2019 www.pei-living.ca
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