Fall into energy savings: Simple ways to get your home ready for cooler weather

As the leaves begin to change and cooler temperatures settle in, it’s a good time to get your home ready for the season ahead. A few simple steps can help your home stay comfortable, make the most of the energy you use and prepare your heating system for the months ahead.

Give your heating system a head start

Before you turn up the heat for the season, take a few minutes to make sure your heating system is ready to go.

Replace or clean your furnace filter according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A clean filter helps your system operate efficiently and keeps air moving through your home.

It’s also a good idea to have your heating equipment inspected and serviced as recommended by the manufacturer. Regular maintenance can help identify issues before they become bigger problems—and help keep your system running safely and efficiently.

If you use a heat pump, make sure the outdoor unit is clear of leaves, branches and other debris, and check your manufacturer’s recommendations for seasonal maintenance.

Check for drafts

Small gaps around windows and doors can let warm air escape and cold air sneak in.

Take a quick walk around your home and check for noticeable drafts around windows, exterior doors and other openings. Weatherstripping and caulking can help seal some of these gaps and keep the warm air where you want it.

Don’t forget about less obvious areas, such as attic hatches, electrical outlets on exterior walls and openings around pipes.

Let your thermostat do some of the work

Your thermostat plays an important role in managing your home’s energy use.

Consider lowering the temperature when you’re sleeping or away from home, then returning it to a comfortable temperature when you need it. A programmable or smart thermostat can make these adjustments automatically based on your schedule.

If you have a smart thermostat, you may also be eligible to participate in programs that reward customers for helping manage electricity demand during peak periods. If you live in Kanata or Stittsville, be sure to check out Hydro Ottawa’s GridFlex Program. For everyone else, visit Save on Energy’s Peak Perks Program.

Give your windows some attention

Windows can be a significant source of heat loss, particularly in older homes.

On sunny fall days, open your curtains or blinds to take advantage of natural warmth. Once the sun goes down, close them to add another layer between your home and the cooler outdoor air.

If you have particularly drafty windows, consider installing insulating window film or using thermal curtains as a simple, lower-cost way to improve comfort.

Don’t heat an empty room

If you have rooms in your home that aren’t used regularly, check that you aren’t unnecessarily heating them more than needed. Keep doors closed where appropriate and make sure furniture, curtains or other items aren’t blocking vents or radiators.

At the same time, avoid closing too many vents or turning off heat completely in a room without understanding how it could affect your home’s heating system. If you’re unsure, check your equipment manufacturer’s recommendations or consult a qualified professional.

Use your appliances wisely

Cooler weather often means more time spent cooking, baking and doing laundry indoors. A few simple habits can help manage your electricity use.

Run your dishwasher and washing machine with full loads when possible, and use cold water for laundry when it makes sense for the fabric and load. When cooking, use the smallest appliance that meets your needs—a toaster oven, air fryer or microwave can use less energy than a full-size oven for some meals.

And when you do use the oven, consider cooking multiple items at once.

Take advantage of the cooler weather

Fall is a great time to give your air conditioning a break. Once temperatures are comfortable, turn off your air conditioner and open windows to let fresh air circulate through your home.

Just remember to close windows again when you turn on your heating system.

Make energy-saving a seasonal habit

Getting your home ready for fall doesn’t have to mean tackling a long list of upgrades all at once. Start with the simple things: check your heating system, seal drafts, adjust your thermostat and make small changes to how you use appliances.

These little habits can add up—and help you head into the colder months with a home that’s comfortable, prepared and using energy wisely.