Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
The Christmas season is all about celebrating and as you host your parties for family and friends, here are a few tips that will help keep energy costs down during the holidays:
- Place all outdoor lights on a timer. Have them on during off-peak hours and turn them off overnight.
- Use the time-of-use schedule. Take advantage of off peak periods on weekdays and holidays. December 26 and 26 are considered holidays but not December 24. (on-peak is 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. Mid-peak is 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. and off-peak is 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.)
- When cooking on your stove top, match the heating element with the size of the pot you are using. More heat will get to the pot and less heat will be lost.
- When baking, check the progress of your goodies by looking through the oven window. Opening the oven door, even for a few seconds will lower the internal temperature.
- Any leftovers? Allow anything leftover to cool fully before placing in the fridge or freezer. Pass on preheating. It might be necessary for baking but not for roasts or casseroles.
- Lower the thermostat. When entertaining, the increased body heat and cooking will help keep your house warm. If you are being entertained elsewhere, lower the thermostat in your home.
Energy One has additional energy saving tips for the holidays. For more information, visit: HydroOne.com/Save Energy.