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Electricity Checklist

Many factors can affect your electricity usage in your home. Use this checklist and see how much you can save.

  • Turn off your computer, lights, TVs and other appliances when they aren't being used.
  • Replace regular light bulbs with energy efficient, compact fluorescent light bulbs.
  • Use motion sensors and dimmer switches.
  • Update appliances with more energy efficient models.
  • Leave 25 cm of space on either side of your refrigerator for optimal airflow.
  • Ensure your refrigerator door seals tightly.
  • Don't position your refrigerator or freezer near a heat source, such as a radiator, heating vent, stove or dishwasher.
  • Set your oven to convection whenever possible to reduce baking times.
  • Turn the oven off a few minutes before cooking is complete – the heat in the oven will finish the job.
  • Don't open the oven door while it is in operation.
  • Use the energy saving cycle on your dishwasher, and only start it with a full load.
  • Clean the drains and filters in your dishwasher regularly.
  • Air-dry your dishes instead of using the heat dry option.
  • Use the cold water option on your washing machine.
  • Don't overuse your dryer – hang clothes to dry whenever possible.
  • Use an electronic moisture or temperature sensor that turns off your dryer when your clothes are dry.
  • Empty your dryer's lint trap after every load.
  • Use an outdoor clothesline to dry your clothes.
  • Keep your air conditioner set at 25 degrees or higher.
  • Turn your air conditioner off if you're leaving home for more than 24 hours.
  • Make sure your air conditioner’s filter is clean.
  • Consider installing a ceiling fan instead of an air conditioner.
  • Open windows up in the morning to let cooler air in, then close windows and blinds by noon to keep the cooler air in and the hot sun out.
  • Don't use heat-producing appliances during the hottest part of the day.
  • Use LED holiday lights.
  • Place a humidifier in commonly used rooms, or install a humidifier on your furnace. The additional moisture will raise the heat index in your home.

Customers are free to purchase natural gas services or electricity services from a retailer of their choice. For a list of retailers, visit ucahelps.alberta.ca or call 310-4822 (toll free in Alberta).