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I am a renter, is there anything I can do to make my home more energy efficient?
Whether you live in an apartment building or a suite in a home, as a renter there are many things you can do to improve the energy efficiency of your home. This in turn can improve the comfort of your home, and potentially help to lower your energy bills. Simple Water Conservation Measures Installing efficient showerheads…
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What is a Home Energy Monitor?
A Home Energy Monitor is a device that continuously monitors your electricity usage and displays this information, in both dollar cost and kilowatts, in real time. The Home Energy Monitor will also display your daily, monthly, and accumulated totals, as well as your meter reading. Through your BC Hydro MyHydro account, you may already be…
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What is the difference between a smart and programmable thermostat?
Using either a smart or programmable thermostat in your home is a great way to control your heating system and energy bills, and keep your home consistently comfortable. Programmable Thermostat A programmable thermostat is designed to adjust the temperature according to a series of programmed settings that take effect at different times of the day.…
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What is the best way to reduce GHG’s emitted by my home?
The best way to reduce the greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted by your home is to switch from a greenhouse gas intensive heating fuel to a more climate friendly fuel type. Fossil fuels are the most GHG intensive heating fuels, with oil having the highest emissions, followed by propane and natural gas. Other combustion fuels such…
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What are EnerGuide home evaluations?
An EnerGuide home evaluation is a comprehensive service designed by the federal government to help you improve the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. As part of the service, an energy advisor will come to your home and assess its energy performance. Energy advisors are building science professionals who will provide you with unbiased…
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What are the symptoms of poor indoor air quality, and how can it be improved?
If your home has insufficient air distribution and ventilation, you may find that your home has poor indoor air quality. Insufficient air distribution and ventilation often results in mould, condensation on windows and mirrors, lingering smells after cooking, and chemical smells (from synthetic fabrics, furnishings, household products, cigarette smoke, burning candles, etc.). If your home…
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What accreditations do I look for when hiring contractors/installers?
When hiring an installer for your energy efficiency upgrades and renovations, it’s a good practice to look for an installer’s certifications and credentials. Accreditations you should look for include: Did you see a building science or energy efficiency term you did not understand? Check out our glossary.
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What are some of the consequences of hiring a contractor who doesn’t sell quality products or provide a professional installation?
If you don’t take the time to select a professional contractor with the expertise to complete your home renovation or installation, you may have to deal with unforeseen consequences. Below is a partial list of problems that can arise if a contractor uses lower-quality products and/or does not complete a professional installation: Did you see…
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Can I replace my window panes and/or sills but not the frames?
No. You must replace the entire window, including the frame, in order for your window upgrade to be eligible for a rebate or to count toward the Bonus Offers. The whole window assembly must be ENERGY STAR® certified and must be listed on the ENERGY STAR certified fenestration list for windows and doors. For complete window and door…
