Saving money is on most people’s minds these days. And when it comes to your home, there are ways to save that you may not know about. After finishing Part Two, be sure to also check out Part One on making your home more energy efficient.
To help you discover these savings, governments from all levels and energy providers such as Enbridge have collaborated to offer incentives to homeowners to spur changes that will save money in the long run. And lowering costs and decreasing demand on the energy grid should be a priority for everyone.
In Part Two, we have some additional methods that involve devices, appliances, and other aspects of your home that can be upgraded or replaced to save you money in the long term. It’ll cost money upfront to make these replacements or additions, but in the long run, expect savings!
For Toronto homeowners, here are some more options:
- Smart Thermostat
- Going Solar
- Water Heater to Heat Pump
- Windows and Doors
SMART THERMOSTAT
Not only will a smart thermostat heat and cool your home more efficiently, but you’ll also be able to control the temperature of your home remotely from your phone. Going away during the summer for a week, but you already left? Log in and set that A/C a little higher in temperature. Then set it back to your preferred temperature before you leave to come back home!
Incentive: Up to $125 through Enbridge.
GOING SOLAR
Want to change how your home is powered, while reducing your pull on the energy grid? Install solar panels or batteries and generate your own power!
Incentive: Up to $5000 from the Enbridge Home Efficiency Rebate; and from the City of Toronto, up to $1000 for Home Energy Loan Participants when a solar photovoltaic system is installed.
WATER HEATER TO HEAT PUMP
As mentioned in Part One, buying a heat pump qualifies for significant rebates from Enbridge and the City of Toronto. Replacing your water heater with an ENERGY STAR® heat pump will save you a whopping 70% in energy. So, replace your existing hot water heater with a ground source, air source, or domestic hot water heat pump to take advantage of these monetary and energy savings!
Incentive: Up to $7800 from Enbridge; Up to $2500 from the City of Toronto.
WINDOWS AND DOORS
Ever wonder why your house doesn’t stay cool in the summer, or warm in the winter? It’s probably your windows and doors. While you may have sealed any cracks and leaks, your doors and windows may be outdated and just not efficient. Replace them with ENERGY STAR® certified models and start noticing the temperatures begin to hold, and your energy costs begin to drop.
Incentive: Up to $325 per window and door.
That’s four more ways to start saving money on energy while making your home more comfortable, and more efficient! Take advantage of these incentives, whichever ones suit your situation.
Are you ready to move to the next stage? Let’s chat. Send me an email (hillary@hillarylane.ca) or text/phone (416-882-4707).
Photo by Rowan Heuvel on Unsplash
