Post #6

Tip 5 - Take Control of the Temperature of your house and water heater

By Cara, Nathan, Catherine,

Set your thermostat in winter to 20 degrees C or less during the daytime, and 15 degrees C before going to sleep or when you're away for the day. During the summer, set thermostats to 25 degrees C or more.

Set the thermostat on your water heater around 50 degrees C. Lower temperatures can save more energy, but you might run out of hot water or end up using extra electricity to boost the hot water temperature in your dishwasher.

Another option is to buy a programmable thermostat and an on demand hot water heater. 

Post #5

Tip 4 - Set Computers to Hibernate

By David, Amy, and Tia

Change your computer settings to "hibernate" automatically after 30 minutes. The "hibernate mode" turns the computer off in a way that doesn't require you to reload everything when you switch it back on. Allowing your computer to hibernate saves energy and is more time-efficient than shutting down and restarting your computer. When you're done for the day you should shut it down.

Post #4

Tip 3 - Set Computers to Sleep

By Josh, Makena K, Alissa

Turn on the "sleep mode" feature on your computer, allowing it to use less power when you’re not using it. In Windows, the power management settings are found on your control panel. Mac users, look for energy saving settings under system preferences in the apple menu.

Most computers are now automatically set to go to sleep when not being used. 

Post #3

Tip 2 – Use a Powerbar

By Mackenzie, Breanne, and Lindsey 

Use power bars to switch off TV’s, home theater equipment, and stereos when you're not using them. Even when you think these products are off, together they can still use up to 75 or 100 watts.

Using a power bar also saves you time in unplugging numerous plugs.  So next time you’re not using your TV for a while or going away on a trip make sure you use a power bar.  You will save money and the environment.

Thanks for reading our blog post!

PS with all the money you save you should buy yourself a PowerBar Protein Bar. 

Post #2

Tips and Tricks for Reducing Energy Use

Tip 1 – Unplug

By Noah, Dillon, and Audrey

Unplug seldom-used appliances, like an extra fridge in the basement or garage that just has a few items. You could save around $10 every month on your utility bill.

Unplug your chargers when you're not charging. Many houses are full of them.   They are used to charge cell phones, digital cameras, cordless tools and other personal devices. Keep them unplugged until you need them.

In our houses we have a lot of things plugged in.  We are setting a goal to unplug electronics more often especially when we go on holidays and are not home. 

We hope you enjoyed our blog post.  Please leave your comments.