Winterize Your Home for Comfort and Savings — Practical Steps for a Warmer, More Efficient Season

Part 2 of the Winter Energy Series

In Part 1, we looked at when and how we use energy through the day. Now, in Part 2, let’s get hands-on. These are simple, low-cost ways to keep heat where you want it, cut waste, and make your home more comfortable all winter long.

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1️⃣ Seal and Save

Small gaps let big dollars escape.

• Check windows and doors for drafts; replace worn weather-stripping or add a door sweep.
• Use rope caulking or removable sealant for leaky frames.
• Close the fireplace damper when not in use and seal any unused vents.

2️⃣ Insulate Smart

Insulation is quiet savings.

• Add attic insulation to R-50 or higher where possible.
• Wrap basement headers and hot-water pipes.
• Insulate outlets on exterior walls with foam gaskets.

3️⃣ Heat Wisely

• Lower the thermostat by 2–3 °C when away or asleep; programmable models make this easy.
• Keep vents and baseboards clear of furniture or curtains.
• Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air down.
• Use sunlight — open curtains on sunny days, close them at night to trap heat.

4️⃣ Maintenance Counts

• Replace or clean furnace filters monthly during heating season.
• Schedule a professional furnace inspection every 1–2 years.
• Check humidifier and HRV settings for proper airflow.

5️⃣ Bonus Tip: Use the Library Energy Kit

Borrow an Energy Efficiency Kit from our local library to measure heat loss and plug-in energy use. It’s a great way to see exactly where improvements will save you the most.

6️⃣ Plan Ahead for New Billing Models

Power providers in Alberta continue exploring time-of-day pricing, where rates are higher during evening peaks. Learning to shift your heating, laundry, and cooking habits now will put you ahead of future rate structures.

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Connect and Learn More

Find more seasonal tips and rebate information on our Renewable Energy page, and catch up on Part 1: How to Save Energy This Winter.
(Coming soon: Part 3 – Understanding Alberta’s Energy Peak Hours.)

Sustainability grows when we share it. By sharing knowledge and small daily habits, we create warmer homes and a stronger, more resilient community. 🌱