Vancouver Island Real Estate Information

With any home on Vancouver Island, energy costs take a big chunk out of a homeowner’s budget. However, with a little bit of time and effort, there are a few easier ways to cut your energy bills by at least half.

Let’s start with your home heating bill, which is one of the biggest expenses. By installing an automatic timer thermostat, you can significantly reduce your heating costs. The thermostat allows you to set the temperature back by a few degrees at bedtime, yet puts the temperature back to a comfortable level before you get up. Instead of heating the whole house, an extra quilt or electric blanket will keep you toasty and warm for a lot less money. For rooms that are used infrequently such as guestrooms, consider shutting the warm air register and closing the door until the room is needed. Your furnace won’t have to work as hard, and you’ll save more money while the rest of your home stays comfortably warm.

Ideally, insulation, which is a one-time investment, is an energy saver that works hard for you all year long. It will keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter, and the cost of installation can be recaptured in the amount of energy that is saved. In summer, the effects of solar heating can be reduced using lined draperies, insulated windows blinds, or even reflective windows.

Old appliances are another energy cost that is not always considered. Did you know that a refrigerator is one the biggest energy users in your home? Today’s newer appliances are far more efficient than the prior models of yesteryear, so repairing an older unit may not be the bargain you hope for!